What is the difference between interrogatories and requests for production?

The distinction between interrogatories and requests for production lies in their purpose and format. Interrogatories are formal written questions that one party submits to another party in a lawsuit, seeking detailed information which must be answered under oath. This tool allows parties to gather testimony and information that can clarify various aspects of the case, making it easier to prepare for trial.

On the other hand, requests for production are used to request documents, tangible evidence, or other materials relevant to the case. This process aids in obtaining physical evidence that may support claims or defenses, thus allowing for a thorough examination of the facts through documentation.

The other options present some common misconceptions about these legal tools. For example, the idea that interrogatories seek documents is incorrect because they specifically focus on questions, not documents. Likewise, characterizing interrogatories as oral statements misrepresents their function, as they require written responses, while requests for production are indeed concerned with obtaining documents rather than answering questions. Finally, interrogatories do not need to be filed with the court for validity, while requests for production are similarly not filed but rather served on other parties. Overall, understanding these differences is crucial for effective civil litigation practice.