What motion would likely be made prior to the beginning of a trial due to pretrial publicity?

The most appropriate motion to be made prior to the beginning of a trial due to pretrial publicity is to request a change of venue. Pretrial publicity can significantly impact a defendant's right to a fair trial, as extensive media coverage may lead to potential jurors having preconceived notions about the case or the defendant's guilt or innocence.

In such situations, a change of venue seeks to relocate the trial to a different jurisdiction where the jury pool is less likely to be influenced by prior media coverage. This motion is rooted in the constitutional guarantee of a fair trial, ensuring that the defendant can be judged by an impartial jury.

The other options do not directly address the issue of pretrial publicity in the same way. Dismissing charges is a more drastic measure typically reserved for situations of lack of evidence or legal grounds for prosecution, while requesting a mistrial indicates that a trial has already begun and specific issues have arisen during proceedings that warrant its termination. Reducing bail does not pertain to the effects of pretrial publicity, as it relates more to the defendant's ability to remain free while awaiting trial.