What are the possible outcomes of a suppression hearing?

The possible outcomes of a suppression hearing center around the admissibility of evidence. In this context, when the correct answer identifies that evidence may be upheld or excluded, it points to the primary function of a suppression hearing, which is to determine whether certain pieces of evidence can be used in court.

During a suppression hearing, a judge evaluates whether evidence, typically obtained through searches or seizures, was acquired in violation of the defendant's constitutional rights. If the judge finds that the evidence was improperly obtained, they can rule to exclude it from the trial. Conversely, if the evidence is deemed admissible, it will be upheld and can be presented during the trial. This process is critical in ensuring that legal proceedings respect individuals' rights and that the evidence used in court is obtained lawfully.

The other options suggest outcomes that are not directly associated with the suppression hearing. Setting a new trial date involves scheduling matters, dropping all charges does not stem from a suppression hearing ruling, and sentence reduction is not a direct consequence of evidence being suppressed or upheld. The focus of a suppression hearing is specifically on evidentiary issues rather than these broader procedural or sentencing topics.