The North Carolina Certified Paralegal Examination (NCCP) Practice Exam

The purpose of a mini-trial is to provide a private proceeding for disputing parties to assess their case. In a mini-trial, the parties present a condensed version of their arguments and evidence to a neutral third party, who may facilitate negotiations or provide an advisory opinion. This setting allows both sides to gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of their positions, which can promote settlement discussions and lead to resolution without the need for a full trial. This informal process encourages collaboration and can significantly reduce the time and costs associated with traditional litigation.

Other options do not accurately reflect the intention behind a mini-trial. A mini-trial is not a formal court procedure, nor is it specifically designed for challenging court jurisdiction or expediting criminal trials. Instead, it serves as a practical alternative dispute resolution method that seeks to enhance the parties' insight into their cases.