What is the meaning of a motion in limine?

A motion in limine refers specifically to a request made before a trial begins, often at the threshold of the case, to exclude certain evidence from being presented during the trial. This is typically done to avoid the potential prejudice that could arise from allowing jurors to hear evidence that may be considered irrelevant, misleading, or excessively prejudicial.

In practice, litigants may file a motion in limine to address various issues regarding what will or will not be allowed in front of the jury, aiming to shape the legal landscape of the trial and ensure fairness. This type of motion serves as an important pre-trial tool for attorneys looking to protect their case's integrity and maintain a focus on relevant issues, contributing significantly to trial strategy and case management.

While the other options touch on different legal procedures, they do not accurately capture the essence of a motion in limine as it pertains specifically to pre-trial evidentiary concerns.