What is the primary function of a preliminary inquiry?

The primary function of a preliminary inquiry is to screen evidence and determine whether there is sufficient ground to proceed to trial. This stage serves as a safeguard in the legal process, allowing for an assessment of the evidence presented by the prosecution to ensure that there is a reasonable basis for the charges being brought against the accused. If the judge presiding over the inquiry finds that there is enough evidence to support the charges, the case will move forward to trial.

This process is crucial for preventing unfounded prosecutions and protecting individuals from being subjected to trial without a valid basis. It helps ensure that the judicial resources are utilized effectively and that defendants are not wrongfully subjected to the stress and implications of a trial without adequate evidence.

The other options do not align with the purpose of a preliminary inquiry. The inquiry does not determine guilt or innocence, nor does it adjudicate civil disputes or impose sentences. Instead, it functions purely as a pre-trial assessment of the evidence against the accused.