The preliminary hearing in the case of the Aurora Theater shooting got underway on Monday in Colorado.

In the case, prosecutors have filed more than 180 counts against the man, James Holmes, who opened fire with multiple firearms, killing 12 movie-goers and injuring 58 others.

The shootings occurred in Theater Nine of the Century 16 multiplex at the Town Center shopping mall in Aurora.

It was reported that Holmes entered the theater and took a front row seat, then left the theater through an emergency exit 20 minutes into the film, propping the door open. He then went to his vehicle, which was parked near the emergency exit, donned protective gear and weapons then re-entered the theater about ten minutes later.

Many movie-goers thought that Holmes had just dressed up in a costume, like so many others had for the screening of the Dark Knight Rises.

The court hearing is expected to last the entire week. During the hearing, prosecutors will outline their case against Holmes before the judge decides to proceed with the trial.