by 
The Curious Bag
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Many criminal cases end in negotiated settlements with the defendant entering into a plea agreement. The negotiations between the defense and prosecution to reach a plea agreement takes time to conclude. A status hearing is used by the court when plea negotiations are ongoing.
Function
The primary function of a status hearing in a criminal case is to keep the court and all parties up to date on the proceedings. Specifically, a status hearing is used to keep track of plea negotiations in a case.
Time Frame
Although the time frame varies from case to case, many courts set a status hearing every 30 days during plea negotiations.
Features
A status hearing normally is conducted as part of a larger docket of cases before the court. The prosecuting attorney and defense counsel report to the court on plea negotiations and other matters.
Effects
The use of a status hearing keeps criminal cases moving efficiently through the justice system.
Considerations
Courts will not permit a case to drag on endlessly from one status hearing to another. There needs to be some evidence that the case is moving toward a plea agreement.
Source:
"Emanuel Law Outlines: Criminal Procedure;" Steven Emanuel; 2007
"Criminal Procedure;" Joel Samaha; 2007
Resource:
American Bar Association: Section of Criminal Justice
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