Which term is used to describe the exclusion of evidence from trial?

• A. A motion to suppress
• B. Motion for continuance
• C. Motion to compel
• D. Motion in camera

Answer: (A)

Exclusion of evidence from a trial is achieved through a motion to suppress. This formal request asks the court to bar specific evidence from being admitted, usually because it was obtained in violation of rights or by illegal means, such as an unlawful search and seizure or coerive interrogation. The judge weighs whether the evidence is admissible under rules of evidence and constitutional protections, and may suppress it so jurors never see or hear it. The other options don’t target admissibility: a continuance is about delaying the trial, a motion to compel is about forcing production or compliance, and a motion in camera concerns private, closed-division review by the judge rather than exclusion of evidence at trial.