A summons is a written notification that a claim has been filed and that the defendant is required to appear in court on a specific date. Discovery process Discovery is the process whereby both parties prepare for trial by gathering relevant information from one another and from witnesses to the case. Both parties involved in the lawsuit are entitled to learn the details of why the lawsuit is being filed. The concept behind discovery is to limit the surprises that either party can introduce at trial. Discovery also allows the court to render a fair decision in the case by disclosing all the facts on both sides of the case.
Discovery starts by answering written questions and exchanging documents.
Typically, this must be done in a short period of time, though the period varies from state to state. An attorney requesting information that the other side fails to produce can file a motion asking that the court take action and order the opposing party to comply. Interrogatories Requests for documents Depositions Independent medical exams Interrogatories. Interrogatories are written questions served upon the opposing party or a witness to get information from that person. Interrogatories must be answered under oath and in writing.