What describes pretrial discovery?

• A. A post-trial remedy.
• B. A step to appeal.
• C. Exchange of information and evidence before trial.
• D. A process to approve a verdict.

Answer: (C)

Pretrial discovery is the exchange of information and evidence before the trial starts. Its purpose is to uncover facts, identify issues, and prevent surprises, so both sides can prepare and the case can be narrowed to the real disputes. Through discovery, parties can request documents, compel testimony, use depositions, answer written questions (interrogatories), and admit or deny statements, all before trial. This process helps ensure you know what evidence will be available and which witnesses to expect, contributing to a fairer and more efficient proceeding.

The other options describe actions that occur after or outside the trial process—for example, appealing a decision after the trial, or a step that would occur post-trial rather than before.