What happens during the civil litigation discovery process?

Reaching the decision to file a lawsuit against someone does not often come easy. The civil litigation process comes with a multitude of unknowns for individuals and business owners here in Pittsburgh and elsewhere. One of those mysteries involves a process called discovery.

During the discovery phase of a civil lawsuit, both sides attempt to gather information that helps prove their contentions. In addition, any data gathered could help determine whether going to trial is actually necessary. A large number of lawsuits actually settle instead of going to trial, and many of these instances could be credited with the information gathered during discovery.

This process could include interrogatories, which include a list of questions to be answered. Those answers could be discussed further during a deposition in which an individual answers questions under oath regarding the facts of the case. One side may also request documentation from the other. The parties may also request admissions from each other in order to determine where the parties have common ground since there may not be as many disagreements between the parties as they think. If there are facts that both sides can admit, then they can focus only on the facts in dispute.

People here in Pittsburgh and across the country may view the discovery process as a waste of time, but in fact, it serves a important purpose in civil litigation. It provides each side with much needed information that could help resolve the dispute in a more amicable manner. If a settlement cannot be reached, then it provides each side with the ability to be prepared for trial.