Essence and purpose of the proceedings in the court of first instance

The article discusses the essence and purpose of proceedings in the court of first instance through a functional approach, determines what constitutes the criminal procedural function of considering and resolving a criminal case on the merits. The purpose and objectives of the proceedings in the court of first instance are analyzed, it is concluded that the criminal procedural function of consideration and resolution of a criminal case is twofold, since consideration involves resolution, and there is no resolution without consideration. The concept of the stage of production in the court of first instance is given, and the place of this stage among other stages of criminal proceedings is determined.