Final answer:
The purpose of a committal before trial is to inform the accused of the charges and evaluate the evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of holding a committal before trial involves two primary objectives:
- Informing the accused of the charges: During the committal hearing, the judge informs the defendant of the specific charges brought against them. This ensures that the accused understands the nature and cause of the accusation, as guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment.
- Evaluating the evidence: The committal hearing allows the judge to assess the strength of the prosecution's evidence and determine if it is sufficient to proceed to trial. The judge examines the credibility of witnesses and evaluates the admissibility of any evidence.