What is the discovery process in civil litigation?

The discovery process in civil litigation in Florida is a process used in civil lawsuits to gather information and facts from each side. It begins when a party files a complaint, which is the official document that initiates the lawsuit. Once the complaint is filed, the other party has an opportunity to respond. During this process, both sides send requests for information and documents, answer written questions, and provide depositions (sworn oral testimony). Additionally, parties may issue subpoenas to require the production of documents and witnesses. The discovery process is used to narrow the issues in the case, allow both sides to be informed of the facts, and, if possible, settle the dispute without going to trial. In fact, most civil lawsuits are settled without trial. During the discovery process, each side must comply with the requests of the other side and is not allowed to hide any evidence or information that could potentially prove or disprove the claims of either party. The discovery process in Florida is guided by the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. Generally, it requires the exchange of relevant information and documents in a timely manner. The discovery process is intended to resolve disputes without the need for trial, but sometimes disagreements arise on which information should be exchanged or how quickly it should be exchanged. When disagreements arise, the court may have to intervene to resolve the dispute and ensure that parties comply with the rules.

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What is the discovery process in civil litigation?

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