What is a pretrial for divorce?

A divorce can go into the pretrial stage if the two parties filing for divorce have disputes or issues that need to be resolved before a divorce trial can take place, according to DivorceNet. Either party may file a motion for pretrial.

DivorceNet reports that some divorces involve issues that require a temporary resolution between the time the case is filed and the time a trial is held. If both spouses agree on all short-range issues, such as money, custody, possessions, protection orders and enforcement of orders, there should be no need for any pretrial motions. If any of these issues are disputed, a pretrial motion provides a temporary resolution until the case is ready for trial.