Understanding the Discovery Process in Civil Litigation
If you’ve never been involved in a civil lawsuit, the legal process can feel confusing and overwhelming. One of the most critical phases in any civil case is discovery—a stage where both sides gather information to build their arguments. While the term might sound technical, understanding what discovery involves and how it works can make the process far less intimidating. Continue below to learn more. What Is Discovery? In simple terms, discovery is the phase in a lawsuit where both parties exchange information relevant to the case. Its purpose is straightforward: ensure that both sides have access to the facts so that trials are fair and decisions are based on evidence rather than surprises. Without discovery, one side might be blindsided by critical documents or testimony, which could make the case unfairly one-sided. Discovery is not just about collecting documents. It can involve interrogatories, depositions, requests for admissions, and requests for production of documents. ...