What is the purpose of discovery in legal proceedings?

The purpose of discovery in legal proceedings is primarily about the pretrial gathering and exchange of evidence. During the discovery phase, parties involved in a lawsuit obtain relevant information and evidence from each other to prepare for trial. This process ensures that both sides are aware of each other's claims and defenses, which promotes fair play and efficiency in the judicial process.

Discovery typically includes various methods such as depositions, interrogatories, and requests for documents. By exchanging this information, parties can assess the strengths and weaknesses of their cases, which may lead to settlement negotiations or inform strategy for trial if the case proceeds. Hence, this pretrial phase is crucial in establishing what evidence will be presented in court and helps to prevent surprises at trial, allowing for a more straightforward adjudication process.