Define: Document Request

Document Request
Document Request
Quick Summary of Document Request

A document request is a written request from one party to another in a legal case, asking for specific documents or tangible items to be provided for inspection and copying. This is part of the pretrial discovery process and may also be referred to as a request for production of documents, notice to produce, or demand for document inspection.

Full Definition Of Document Request

A document request is a formal written inquiry made by one party to another party in a legal case, seeking specific documents or tangible items for examination and duplication. It is a crucial step in the pretrial discovery process, during which both parties collect information and evidence to support their respective arguments. For instance, in a personal injury lawsuit, the plaintiff’s attorney might submit a document request to the defendant’s attorney, demanding medical records pertaining to the injury, insurance policies, and any correspondence between the defendant and their insurance provider. The defendant would then be obligated to furnish these documents for review and duplication. Similarly, in a business dispute, one party may request financial records, contracts, and emails relevant to the disagreement from the opposing party. These examples exemplify how a document request serves as a formal means for one party to acquire information and evidence from another party in a legal case.

Document Request FAQ'S

Yes, you have the right to request relevant documents from the opposing party through a process called discovery.

You can request any documents that are relevant to the case, such as contracts, emails, financial records, medical records, or any other evidence that may support your claims or defences.

You can send a formal written request, known as a document request or a request for production of documents, to the opposing party or their attorney. This request should specify the documents you are seeking and provide a reasonable deadline for their production.

Yes, the opposing party can object to certain document requests if they believe the requested documents are not relevant or are protected by privilege. However, they must provide a valid legal basis for their objection.

If the opposing party refuses to provide the requested documents without a valid legal basis, you can file a motion to compel with the court. The court may then order the opposing party to produce the requested documents.

Yes, you can also request documents from third parties who may have relevant information. This can include banks, employers, or other individuals or entities that possess the requested documents.

Yes, if the opposing party sends you a valid document request, you are generally required to provide the requested documents within a reasonable timeframe. Failure to do so may result in sanctions imposed by the court.

You can request confidential or privileged documents, but the opposing party may object to their production based on privilege or confidentiality. The court will then determine whether the requested documents should be produced.

The opposing party typically has a specific timeframe, usually 30 days, to provide the requested documents. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case.

Yes, if the requested documents are relevant and admissible, you can use them as evidence in court to support your claims or defences. However, you may need to follow certain procedures to authenticate the documents and ensure their admissibility.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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