What is the purpose of discovery in legal proceedings?

The purpose of discovery in legal proceedings is primarily to gather and prepare evidence and information necessary for a case, aiming to determine the facts and merits of the case itself, rather than focusing on the skills of the lawyers involved. Discovery is a critical phase where parties exchange relevant information, which helps in clarifying the issues that will be presented at trial, thereby facilitating a fair assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of each side's arguments.

While gathering evidence and ensuring courtroom efficiency are aspects of the legal process, the fundamental aim of discovery is to foster transparency between the parties. This process helps each side to understand the other's position based on factual evidence, allowing for more informed decision-making, negotiation, or settlement before trial. By concentrating on the merits of the case rather than the abilities of the legal representatives, discovery promotes a focus on the actual issues at hand and helps to prevent surprises during the trial, ultimately leading to a more equitable resolution.