Discovery
N.D. Ill. — ## §6.
§6. Discovery
Key Discovery Rules
| Requirement | Details | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Interrogatory format | Each answer must be immediately preceded by a full statement of the interrogatory | LR 33.1 |
| Objection format | When objecting, set forth the interrogatory and answer immediately preceding the objection | LR 33.1 |
| Filing discovery materials | Discovery materials (including expert disclosures) may not be filed unless submitted in support of or in opposition to a motion | LR 26.3 |
| Rule 26(f) conferences | May be conducted by telephone | LR 26.1 |
| Written discovery plan at Rule 26(f) | Not required unless the court orders otherwise | LR 26.1 |
Discovery Disputes
All discovery motions require prior conferral — in person or by telephone (LR 37.2). The court will refuse to hear the motion without the required certification. See §5 (Meet-and-Confer Requirements) for the full conferral requirements.
Case Management
The initial status hearing serves as the scheduling conference under FRCP 16 (LR 26.1). Unless otherwise ordered, parties need not present a written report outlining the discovery plan at the preliminary pretrial conference (LR 26.1).
The Standing Order Establishing Pretrial Procedure (LR 16.1) sets the framework for discovery management. Parties should be prepared to discuss discovery timeline, pending motions, and settlement possibilities at the scheduling conference.