What do the pleadings include What is the purpose of the discovery phase of a civil trail Describe what happens during this process?

Pleadings include formal written statements filed by parties in a civil case, outlining their claims and defenses, such as complaints, answers, and counterclaims. The purpose of the discovery phase is to allow both parties to gather evidence, clarify facts, and prepare for trial by exchanging relevant information and documents. During this process, parties may conduct depositions, request interrogatories, and issue subpoenas, enabling them to build their cases and potentially resolve disputes before trial through negotiations or settlements.