Case Progression
The Discovery Process
Exchanging information with the other side before trial.
Local rules vary: Discovery rules, request limits, and deadlines differ by jurisdiction. Follow your court's rules of civil procedure.
What discovery is for
Discovery is how both sides learn the facts before trial. The idea is simple: no surprises. Each side can ask the other for documents, answers, and testimony relevant to the case.
Common tools
- Interrogatories — written questions the other side must answer in writing.
- Requests for production — asking for documents, emails, photos, or other evidence.
- Requests for admission — statements the other side must admit or deny.
- Depositions — out-of-court sworn testimony, recorded by a court reporter.
Deadlines and limits
Discovery has deadlines and limits — for example, a maximum number of interrogatories. Each side must respond within set timeframes, and you can object to improper requests.
If the other side won't cooperate
If someone ignores or refuses proper discovery, you can file a motion to compel asking the court to order them to respond.
Keep everything organized
Track what you asked for, what you got, and the dates. Discovery produces a lot of paper — a simple log goes a long way.