Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Inspection of documents is a legal process where one party has the right to look at the other party's documents that are relevant to a lawsuit. This happens during pre-trial discovery, which is when both parties share information about the case. The party requesting the inspection must describe exactly what they want to see and when and where they want to see it. If the other party refuses to show the documents, the requesting party can ask the court to force them to do so. The other party can object to the request or ask for protection if they feel the request is too burdensome or embarrassing.
Definition: Inspection of documents is a legal right that allows a party to examine the opposing party's relevant documents during pre-trial discovery. This process is governed by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 34, which outlines the scope of documents that can be requested and the procedure for making the request.
For example, if a person is involved in a lawsuit and wants to see documents that the other party has, they can make a request to inspect those documents. The request must be specific about what items are being requested and when and where the inspection will take place.
If the opposing party fails to respond or refuses to produce the requested documents, the requesting party can bring a motion to compel inspection. However, the opposing party can object to the request for specific items and can also submit a motion for a protective order to protect themselves from any undue burden or expense resulting from the request.
Overall, inspection of documents is an important part of the legal process that allows parties to gather evidence and build their case.