What Are Motions in Limine?

My husband and I have a trial in Lebanon, Tennessee next month.  Our lawyer said that the other side filed motions in limine.  What does that mean?

"Motions in limine" are papers filed with the court asking the court to reach a pre-trial ruling on certain matters, usually evidence issues.  For example, if I am representing a person  who was convicted of a crime 15 years ago and now has a trial in a car wreck case I will probably file a motion in limine asking the court not to let our opponent mention the prior criminal conviction.  This motion in limine gives the judge the opportunity to rule on the issue before the jury has any chance of hearing about it. 

The judge does not have to reach a decision on any motion in limine before trial.