What occurs at a suppression hearing?

In a suppression hearing, the primary focus is on the legality of evidence that the prosecution seeks to introduce at trial. During this hearing, the defense argues that certain evidence should be excluded because it was obtained in violation of the defendant's rights, such as through an illegal search or seizure. The outcome of this hearing can dramatically affect the prosecution’s case by determining whether key pieces of evidence can be used during the trial.

The other options do not pertain to a suppression hearing. Jury selection occurs in a separate pre-trial phase and is focused on choosing a fair and impartial jury for the trial. A closing statement is delivered at the end of a trial's proceedings and serves to summarize and argue one's case for the jury. Sentencing occurs after a verdict has been rendered, and it is a distinct phase where the judge determines the appropriate penalty for a convicted defendant.