What is the purpose of a motion for change of venue?

The purpose of a motion for change of venue is primarily to ensure a fair and impartial proceeding. This legal mechanism is employed when a party believes that the case cannot be tried fairly in the current venue due to factors such as pre-trial publicity, potential biases of jurors, or concerns about community sentiment against one of the parties. By requesting a change of venue, the party aims to relocate the trial to a different jurisdiction where these influences are minimized, promoting a more balanced and just legal process.

This ensures that the defendant's right to a fair trial, as guaranteed by due process, is upheld. In many cases, fairness is compromised when the local community has preconceived notions about the parties involved, so moving the venue is a strategic decision to protect the integrity of the trial.