Discovery Interrogatories and Requests for Production in Your Divorce

In a contested Washington divorce, each party needs information to build a clear and fair picture of the marital estate, parenting capabilities, and income. When informal disclosure isn't enough, the court process offers formal discovery tools, including interrogatories and requests for production, to help you gather the evidence necessary for negotiation or trial.

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we guide clients through these discovery methods to ensure their rights are protected and the court has the full story.

What Are Interrogatories?

Interrogatories are written questions one party sends to the other. The receiving party is required to answer them, in writing and under oath, within a certain time frame - usually 30 days.

Typical interrogatories in a divorce might include:

• “Describe your current employment, including salary and benefits.”
  
  
• “List all bank accounts you’ve held in the last two years.”
  
  
• “Identify all property (real and personal) you claim is separate.”

These questions help uncover inconsistencies or missing details in the other party’s claims, particularly in high-conflict or high-asset cases.

What Are Requests for Production?

Requests for production are written demands for specific documents. Like interrogatories, they must be answered within a set timeframe.

Examples include:

• Tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements
  
  
• Real estate deeds and mortgage documents
  
  
• Retirement account balances
  
  
• Emails or texts related to custody or finances

This is where you gain access to hard evidence that may support or contradict the other party’s position. In many divorces, this step is critical to determining fair spousal support, dividing property, or preparing for trial.

Why Discovery Matters

Even in amicable cases, emotions can cloud judgment. One party may unintentionally omit assets, or there may be suspicion of hidden income. Discovery helps ensure transparency and gives your attorney the tools to advocate for a fair resolution.

In some cases, if the other party refuses to respond or fails to disclose information, the court may impose sanctions or allow certain facts to be presumed true.

Your Role in the Process

When you receive discovery requests, you’re legally required to respond. It’s important to work closely with your attorney to ensure accuracy and avoid legal complications. Your attorney may also object to any questions or requests that are overly burdensome or irrelevant.

When Is Discovery Most Useful?

Discovery is especially valuable in:

• High-asset divorces
  
  
• Custody disputes with conflicting parenting narratives
  
  
• Situations where financial misconduct is suspected
  
  
• Cases approaching trial without full agreement

Let Us Help You Navigate Discovery

Discovery can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most effective tools for leveling the playing field in a divorce. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we know how to use interrogatories and requests for production strategically to protect your interests and move your case forward.

Contact us today for a free telephone case evaluation and learn how we can support you through your Washington divorce 425-800-0573.

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