Discovery The discovery process in Alabama refers to the pretrial phase of a lawsuit where each party is entitled to obtain information from the other side regarding the case. This process allows both sides to gather evidence and information, and helps to narrow the issues that will be addressed at trial. Discovery in Alabama is governed by the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure, which provide guidelines and procedures for the exchange of information between the parties. The rules allow for a variety of discovery methods, including interrogatories (written questions that the other party must answer under oath), requests for production of documents and other tangible items, requests for admission, and depositions (oral questioning of parties or witnesses under oath). The discovery process can be initiated by either party after the complaint has been filed and the defendant has answered. Once the process is initiated, each party has a certain amount of time to respond to requests for information and to provide their own requests for information. If a party fails to respond or provide requested information, the other party can seek court intervention to compel compliance. Discovery is an important part of the litigation process as it allows each party to build their case by gathering evidence and information. It is designed to promote transparency and fairness in the legal system, and to help parties come to a resolution of their dispute.