What is the discovery process in a lawsuit?

Discovery is the phase of litigation where both sides gather evidence and information about the case. It includes interrogatories (written questions the other side must answer under oath), requests for production (demands for documents like medical records, photos, and communications), requests for admission (asking the other side to admit or deny specific facts), and depositions (sworn testimony from parties and witnesses). Discovery in Colorado personal injury cases typically takes 6-12 months. In catastrophic injury cases, discovery is more extensive. There are more medical records to gather, more experts to depose, and more complex damage calculations to support. Thorough discovery is essential to proving lifetime damages. The information gathered during discovery often determines whether a case settles or goes to trial, and for how much.