California Private Investigator Practice Exam

What are written questions submitted to a party from the adversary called?

1. Depositions

2. Interrogatories

3. Affidavits

4. Summons

The correct answer is: Interrogatories

Written questions submitted to a party from the adversary are referred to as interrogatories. Interrogatories are a specific form of discovery used in litigation, where one party formally asks the other party a series of written questions that must be answered in writing and under oath. This process is governed by rules that require the responding party to provide truthful and complete answers, which can then be used as evidence during the trial or to prepare for trial. The significance of interrogatories lies in their ability to uncover pertinent facts and information that may not be readily available to one party, facilitating a more informed litigation process. They serve as a tool for establishing the basis of a case and can greatly influence the strategies employed by both parties. While depositions involve taking oral testimony under oath, affidavits are sworn written statements of facts made by a party or witness, and summons are documents that notify a party of legal action and require their appearance in court, none of these terms specifically refer to the written inquiries exchanged during the discovery phase as interrogatories do. Thus, the definition and purpose associated with interrogatories make this the correct choice.