Discovery and Scheduling Order
:? I recently filed for divorce without an attorney. I bought a book with forms. I followed all of the steps, filed all the necessary forms, took all the necessary steps. I have just received a discovery/scheduling order. There is nothing in my book about this. I have no idea why I received this, what it means. My county court is not allowed to give any legal advice. I have no lawyer, so I was wondering if anyone knows the purpose of this, what happens if one of the parties don't show, and does anyone know of a helpline that I could call for free lega advice.
Discovery and Scheduling Orders
A discovery order dictates the nature of discovery (depositions, interrogatories, requests for production of documents, etc.) permitted between the parties, and the date upon which discovery concludes.
A scheduling order sets forth certain key dates for the progress of the case, and describes the hearings which will occur on those dates. The purpose of a scheduling order is to keep a case on track toward its resolution.
Failure to appear for a required hearing can result in sanctions, possibly including default or dismissal.