The process during a lawsuit, before trial, by which each party obtains information from the other party which may be used as evidence, or may lead to useful evidence, at the trial. Common methods of discovery include interrogatories (written questions), requests for documents, requests for admissions (see admission), and depositions (verbal questions).
Pretrial device used to obtain or discover all information, facts, and circumstances surrounding the allegations at issue in the lawsuit so that parties can better prepare for trial. Techniques include interrogatories, requests for production of documents and things, admissions of facts, physical and mental examinations, and depositions.