What is the primary purpose of a change of venue in civil actions?

The primary purpose of a change of venue in civil actions is indeed for the convenience of parties and witnesses. When a venue is changed, it is typically done to ensure that the trial can be conducted in a location that is more accessible for those directly involved in the case, including the parties bringing the lawsuit, the defendants, and the witnesses who may need to testify.

This concept becomes particularly important in circumstances where the original venue may be inconvenient, whether due to travel difficulties, safety concerns, or potential biases that could affect the fairness of the trial. By relocating the proceedings to a more suitable location, the court can promote efficiency, fairness, and justice in the legal process.

Changes of venue facilitate the smooth progress of litigation, ensuring that all parties can adequately prepare for the case and attend the trial without undue hardship. This focus on convenience underscores the goal of a legal system that aims to balance the rights and needs of all parties involved.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary intent behind changing a venue. While increasing the duration of the trial or enabling jury trials might be related to broader courtroom processes, they do not represent the main rationale for a change of venue.