At KEY-Discovery, we often receive inquiries from clients and colleagues asking about the different types of legal discovery services available. It’s a common question, as the discovery process can seem complex and overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the legal system. To shed some light on this crucial phase of litigation, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the different types of legal discovery. Whether you’re an attorney, a paralegal, or someone simply seeking information, understanding the various discovery tools at your disposal can be instrumental in effectively navigating a legal case.
- Interrogatories: These are written questions that one party sends to another party in the lawsuit. The receiving party must provide written answers under oath. Interrogatories are useful for obtaining background information, identifying witnesses, and clarifying key facts.
- Requests for Production of Documents: This involves asking the other party to provide specific documents, electronically stored information (ESI), or other tangible things relevant to the case. This can include emails, contracts, financial records, photos, and more.
- Depositions: These are in-person interviews where a witness or party to the lawsuit gives sworn testimony under oath. Attorneys from both sides are present and can ask questions. Depositions are valuable for gathering detailed information, assessing witness credibility, and preserving testimony for trial.
- Requests for Admissions: These are written statements that one party asks the other party to admit or deny. They are used to narrow down the issues in dispute and establish undisputed facts.
- Physical and Mental Examinations: In cases involving personal injury or mental health issues, a party may request that the other party undergo a physical or mental examination by a qualified professional.
- Subpoenas: These are legal orders compelling a non-party to the lawsuit to provide testimony, documents, or other evidence.
- E-Discovery: This refers to the discovery of electronically stored information (ESI), such as emails, text messages, social media posts, and other digital data. E-discovery often involves specialized tools and techniques to manage large volumes of electronic data.
The specific types of discovery used in a case will depend on the nature of the claims, the type of information sought, and the rules of civil procedure in the relevant jurisdiction. If you work for a law firm or a legal department and need help in general discovery then contact us. Our team of specialists will be able to help you with your discovery needs.