Pretrial motions generally must be filed within a certain window after arraignment. What is that window?

• A. 30 days
• B. 45 days
• C. 60 days
• D. 90 days

Answer: (D)

The concept here is timing for raising issues before trial. After arraignment, pretrial motions are filed to address important questions that could shape how the case proceeds—things like suppressing evidence, dismissing charges, or changing the venue. Courts set a deadline for these motions so they can be fully briefed, argued, and decided before trial, helping the case move forward without unnecessary delays.

A 90-day window is used because it provides enough time for the defense to identify all potentially dispositive issues, gather necessary materials, and obtain rulings, while still keeping the case on a reasonable schedule toward trial. Shorter windows (like 30, 45, or 60 days) often don’t give enough time for thorough briefing and complex motions, particularly for evidentiary suppression or extensive discovery disputes. If a party shows good cause, extensions or continuances can be granted, but the general rule aims for timely resolution of pretrial issues to keep the process efficient.