In a personal injury case, the term discovery refers to:
- The part of the claims process where both sides exchange evidence through written questions (called interrogatories), producing documents, and deposition testimony.
It’s not a quick phase, and it can feel like a lot of back-and-forth, but it’s simply part of how the legal process works. You won’t be left to sort through it alone. We walk you through what to expect, help you respond to requests, and keep things moving so you’re not guessing about what comes next. Reach out for a free consultation to learn more.
What’s the Discovery Process Like in a California Injury Case?
Once your case gets moving, there’s a point where both sides start exchanging information. That stage is called discovery, and it’s simply how each side gets a clearer look at the facts, the injuries, and the evidence. It doesn’t unfold the same way in every case. Sometimes the insurance company is slow to hand things over, and sometimes even a simple accident brings up more questions than expected. But that’s normal.
Here’s what discovery usually involves:
- Written questions. You’ll get a set of written questions—called interrogatories—that cover the basics: who you are, what happened, your medical history, and how the accident has affected you. It sounds formal, but it’s just the other side gathering background information. We send questions their way too.
- Document requests. Along with those questions, the other side will ask for certain documents. That might include medical records, photos, pay stubs, repair estimates, or anything else tied to the accident. Sometimes they’ll ask for things like texts or emails that mention the incident. We help sort through what’s actually needed and make sure your privacy is protected throughout the process.
- Depositions. At some point, you’ll likely be asked to sit down for a deposition. That’s just a recorded Q&A under oath with the defense lawyer. It can feel intimidating, but we prepare you ahead of time so you know what’s coming and how to handle the questions calmly and honestly.
Above all, honesty is what keeps your case strong. If we know the full picture, we can protect you—whether that’s during settlement talks or later in court.
Get Support From Our California Personal Injury Lawyers
Discovery is a major part of building a strong case, but you don’t have to navigate any of it on your own. Our team guides you through each step, helps you stay organized, and makes sure you’re not blindsided by requests from the other side. If you’re dealing with an injury in California and want to understand how the process works, reach out for a free consultation. We’re here to walk you through it.
