What is the term for the judicial process that allows for the examination of evidence?

The judicial process that allows for the examination of evidence is known as discovery. This process is fundamental in both civil and criminal litigation, enabling each party to obtain the necessary information and evidence from the other side before the trial takes place. Discovery helps ensure transparency and fairness by allowing both sides to prepare their cases adequately, which can include depositions, document requests, and interrogatories.

In contrast, the other terms listed refer to different stages in the judicial process. Arraignment is the stage where a defendant is formally charged and asked to enter a plea. A probable cause hearing is a determination of whether there is sufficient reason to believe a crime has been committed and whether a suspect should be charged. A preliminary hearing serves to assess whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. Each of these processes plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system, but none facilitate the examination and exchange of evidence in the same comprehensive manner as discovery does.