Interrogatories

Definition

Interrogatories are a set of written questions that one party in a lawsuit submits to another party, requiring them to provide written answers under oath. They are a crucial part of the discovery process during pretrial procedures, allowing parties to gather information and evidence from each other to prepare for trial.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interrogatories are typically the first step in the discovery process, allowing parties to gather basic information about the case.
2. Parties have a limited number of interrogatories they can serve on each other, usually no more than 25-30, unless the court grants permission for additional questions.
3. Answers to interrogatories must be signed under oath, and can be used as evidence in the case.
4. Interrogatories can cover a wide range of topics, including the opposing party's claims, defenses, damages, and any relevant facts or documents.
5. Failure to respond to interrogatories or providing incomplete answers can result in sanctions from the court.

Review Questions

• Explain the purpose of interrogatories in the pretrial discovery process.
  • Interrogatories serve as a crucial tool in the pretrial discovery process, allowing parties to gather basic information and facts from each other. By submitting written questions that must be answered under oath, parties can obtain details about the opposing side's claims, defenses, damages, and any relevant documents or evidence. This information helps parties better prepare their case and develop effective trial strategies.
• Describe the limitations and requirements surrounding the use of interrogatories.
  • Parties are typically limited in the number of interrogatories they can serve, usually no more than 25-30, unless the court grants permission for additional questions. The answers to interrogatories must be provided in writing and signed under oath, making them admissible as evidence in the case. Failure to respond to interrogatories or providing incomplete answers can result in sanctions from the court, underscoring the importance of complying with these discovery requests.
• Analyze how interrogatories differ from other pretrial discovery methods, such as depositions and requests for production.
  • Interrogatories are distinct from other pretrial discovery methods in several ways. While depositions involve the oral examination of witnesses under oath, interrogatories are written questions that the opposing party must answer in writing. Requests for production, on the other hand, demand the production of specific documents or tangible evidence, rather than the provision of information. Each of these discovery tools serves a unique purpose, with interrogatories focusing on gathering basic facts and information to prepare for trial, while depositions and requests for production delve deeper into the evidence and testimony supporting the case.

Related terms

Discovery:

The pre-trial phase of a lawsuit where parties exchange information, documents, and evidence to prepare for trial.

Deposition: An oral examination of a witness where their testimony is recorded under oath, outside of the courtroom.

Requests for Production: A discovery request where one party demands the other party produce certain documents or tangible evidence.