Rule 3:4-6 Pre-Indictment Disposition Conference

Before a grand jury decides whether to formally charge someone with a crime, a judge can hold a meeting with both sides to talk about settling the case early. This meeting happens in open court and is recorded.

At this meeting, the prosecutor, the defendant, and the defendant's lawyer must all be present. The goal is to see if the case can be resolved before it goes further in the court process, which might include working out a plea deal or other agreement.