Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Little FTC Act
Initial disclosure is the first step in a legal process where parties involved in a case have to share important information with each other. This includes the names and contact information of people who have relevant information, copies of important documents, and any insurance agreements. The goal is to make sure everyone has the same information and to speed up the legal process. In patent law, initial disclosure is a document that explains how an invention works so that others can understand and duplicate it.
Definition: Initial disclosure is the mandatory sharing of information between parties in a legal case according to procedural rules. It can also refer to the complete revelation of all material facts in a case.
Example: In federal practice, parties are required to make available to each other the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of persons likely to have relevant, discoverable information, a copy or description of all relevant documents, data compilations, and tangible items in the party's possession, custody, or control, a damages computation, and any relevant insurance agreements without first receiving a discovery request. This is known as initial disclosure.
Explanation: Initial disclosure is a way to create a more efficient and expeditious discovery process in legal cases. By requiring parties to share information upfront, it can help avoid delays and unnecessary requests for information. The example illustrates how parties in federal practice are required to share specific information without first receiving a discovery request.