What is a discovery request?

A discovery request is an important part of civil procedure in Virginia. It is a formal written document in which one party in a civil lawsuit requests documents, information, or other items from the other party. The request is usually made early on in the case and is used to help both parties prepare for their case. The discovery request typically contains questions about the facts of the case, such as what happened, who was involved, and when the events occurred. In some cases, it may require the other party to produce documents, such as emails, contracts, or text messages. It can also ask for specific admissions, or statements that the requesting party can use as evidence. The discovery request is important to the civil procedure process because it forces both parties to provide information that can help them prepare for their case. It gives both parties the opportunity to explore the facts of the case and helps create a more level playing field. It also helps to prevent any surprise evidence issues that could come up during trial. In Virginia, the discovery process must be completed before the court can hold a hearing or trial. The parties must respond to discovery requests by providing documents or other evidence within a certain amount of time, or else face penalties. If either party does not fulfill the request, the court may order temporary sanctions or dismiss the case.

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