What does 'discovery' mean in legal terms?

In legal terms, 'discovery' refers specifically to the stage in the litigation process where each party involved in a case gathers evidence from the opposing side. This process is crucial as it allows both sides to obtain information that is relevant to the case, which can include documents, witness statements, and other forms of evidence. The aim of discovery is to ensure that both parties have access to the same information, promoting transparency and fair play in legal proceedings.

During this phase, various methods are employed, such as interrogatories (written questions that must be answered), requests for production of documents, and depositions (oral questioning of witnesses under oath). This comprehensive gathering of evidence helps each party prepare their legal strategies and assess the strengths and weaknesses of their case.

The other options reflect distinct stages or aspects of the legal process but do not accurately describe what 'discovery' entails. For instance, the final stage of a trial is typically the closing arguments and verdict, while the phase where parties assess their arguments is more about trial preparation than discovery. Lastly, negotiations before a lawsuit is filed pertain to settlement discussions, which are separate from the process of exchanging evidence in a litigation context.