Written Discovery
While lawyers know the law, they depend on their clients – and the other party in a lawsuit – to learn the specific facts. Learning about the facts from the other party is accomplished through a process called written discovery.
In civil cases (cases where one party sues another party for money damages), written discovery generally is a two-way exchange of information and requests for information arranged between the parties’ lawyers. Each party may request information from a third non-participating party if the requesting party believes the information the third party has is relevant to the case. Written discovery usually includes interrogatories, requests for admission, requests for medical examination, and requests for production of documents.
Interrogatories are written questions one party asks the other party. The person who receives the questions must answer them truthfully, completely, and under oath. Requests for admission are requests made by one party that the other party admits or denies a specific fact. Requests for medical examination are requests, made by one party, that allow the requesting party to have its doctor examine the individual who is hurt or injured. Requests for production of documents are requests asking one party to send certain documents to the other party. Note, however, that there are many rules about written discovery, and the questions and requests must be carefully crafted and sent.
If you intend to file a civil lawsuit or are being sued, hire a lawyer. He or she can be a great ally. If you have questions about lawsuits and related procedures, talk to a lawyer. For more information and to have your questions answered, contact Nashville Attorney Perry A. Craft.
