What is the initial motion filed before a trial called?

The term that correctly describes the initial motion filed before a trial is commonly known as "pretrial motions." Pretrial motions are essential legal tools that parties can utilize to address various issues before the trial officially begins. These motions may include requests for a variety of different rulings or decisions, such as dismissing the case or addressing admissibility of evidence.

While a motion for summary judgment is a request for the court to rule in one's favor based on the evidence available without proceeding to a full trial, it usually occurs after discovery has been completed. A motion to dismiss is often filed to argue that the case should not proceed due to specific legal deficiencies. Meanwhile, a motion in limine deals specifically with the admissibility of evidence at trial, and is typically addressed as the trial approaches rather than at the initial phase before the trial.

Understanding these distinctions emphasizes that pretrial motions encompass a broader category of legal requests, making them the most fitting answer for what is filed initially to address various legal issues that could impact the trial.