Glossary
Interrogatories
Written questions one party sends to another, which must be answered in writing under oath. A standard discovery tool used to find out the basic facts of the other side's case.
Interrogatories are usually limited in number: the federal rules cap them at 25, including subparts. Each side sends a list of questions; the other side has 30 days (in federal court) to respond in writing.
Common interrogatory topics: who are your witnesses, what damages are you claiming, what facts support each of your claims, and what documents do you have. Answers under oath, signed by the party themselves (with help from their lawyer drafting the responses).