what are the time discovery obligations to defendant by us attorney

by Zoe Mayert 10 min read

The defendant shall perform his or her discovery obligations under subdivision four of section 245.20 of this article not later than thirty calendar days after being served with the prosecution's certificate of compliance pursuant to subdivision one of section 245.50 of this article, except that portions of materials claimed to be non-discoverable may be withheld pending a determination and ruling of the court under section 245.70 of this article; but the prosecution must be notified in writing that information has not been disclosed under a particular section.

Full Answer

Do discovery rules really help defendants at trial?

Apr 01, 2015 · provide all Brady material and all discovery that the government is obligated to produce under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 16. Discovery of Brady and Rule 16 material ordinarily should be provided to the defendant at or before the defendant's arraignment and generally no later than one week before the first district court appearance.

How long did it take for Tyll to file a discovery claim?

Apr 01, 2015 · • While Rule 16 makes the government's discovery obligations contingent upon a defendant's request, it is the policy within this Office to disclose such material regardless of whether requested by the defense. Such disclosure must be made as near the time of arraignment as possible but not later than the discovery date set by the Court. Disclosure

What is the modern discovery policy in criminal law?

Prosecutors can't disclose all discovery on the eve of trial, but on the other hand, they don't have to divulge it all way ahead of time. Discovery can unfold gradually. For example, a defendant's attorney might receive a copy of the police report at the first court appearance, but might not receive a prosecution expert's written analysis of blood evidence until shortly before trial.

What are discovery materials in a criminal case?

Jan 16, 2018 · California Discovery Citations (TRG 2017) Jefferson’s California Evidence Bench Book 4 th Edition (CEB 2017) I cannot stress how important it is to know your obligations in responding to written discovery as attorneys spend too much time and money arguing over inadequate responses to basic discovery.

What is the theory behind the right of discovery as it relates to the defendant?

The defense is entitled to know about the prosecution's case before trial. ... In general, a defendant has a right to receive this kind of material, called “discovery,” before trial. But the prosecution's duty to hand over discovery is usually ongoing—it doesn't end merely because a trial has begun.Mar 12, 2019

What are the new discovery laws?

The discovery statute requires district attorneys to share their investigative files in felony cases to defense lawyers who request them prior to trial.

What is Rule 16 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure?

Upon a defendant's request, the government must disclose to the defendant the substance of any relevant oral statement made by the defendant, before or after arrest, in response to interrogation by a person the defendant knew was a government agent if the government intends to use the statement at trial.

What is a Brady violation when it comes to discovery issues?

A “Brady Violation” is what happens when the prosecutors in a criminal case fail to perform their constitutional duty to turn over helpful evidence to the people they have charged with crimes. Everyone has the right to due process and a fair trial.Mar 12, 2021

What is the Brady rule?

The Brady Rule, named after Brady v. Maryland, 373 U.S. 83 (1963), requires prosecutors to disclose materially exculpatory evidence in the government's possession to the defense. ... The defendant bears the burden to prove that the undisclosed evidence was both material and favorable.

What is the 1986 discovery act?

CODE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE (CIVIL DISCOVERY ACT OF 1986) It specially permits discovery of the existence and limits of insurance coverage, and limits discovery of plaintiff's sexual conduct in sexual harassment, assault or battery cases.

How do you draft a discovery response?

Step 1: Carefully Review All the Requests. Review each request to ensure you fully understand the question, and can answer it completely. ... Step 2: Complete Your Responses to the Interrogatories. ... Step 3: Make Photocopies. ... Step 4: Have Your Responses Served. ... Step 5: Retain Your Documents.

What is the Giglio rule?

Giglio v. ... Maryland that due process is violated when the prosecution “withholds evidence on demand of an accused which, if made available, would tend to exculpate him or reduce the penalty.” In Giglio, the Court went further and held that all impeachment evidence falls under the Brady holding.

Which of the following is not an exception to the hearsay rule?

The following are not excluded by the rule against hearsay, regardless of whether the declarant is available as a witness: ... A statement relating to a startling event or condition, made while the declarant was under the stress of excitement that it caused. (3) Then-Existing Mental, Emotional, or Physical Condition.

What is a reciprocal discovery order?

Reciprocal Discovery is a principle of criminal procedure that requires the defendant to give the prosecution copies of any pretrial statements that a defense witness gave during discovery.

What is not exculpatory evidence?

Any evidence that is favorable to the defendant in a criminal trial is considered exculpatory. Likewise, any evidence favorable to the prosecution is inculpatory. ... But any evidence showing that the defendant is not guilty is considered exculpatory.

What are two examples of officer actions that must be disclosed under the Brady rule?

ExamplesThe prosecutor must disclose an agreement not to prosecute a witness in exchange for the witness's testimony.The prosecutor must disclose leniency (or preferential treatment) agreements made with witnesses in exchange for testimony.The prosecutor must disclose exculpatory evidence known only to the police.More items...

What is an example of a Brady violation?

Examples of Brady evidence Evidence that potentially falls under the Brady rule for exculpatory and impeachment purposes includes: Witness accounts taken by the government which contradict government witnesses at trial. Witness identification that of the alleged perpetrator that do not match the accused.May 10, 2021

What is considered exculpatory evidence?

Evidence, such as a statement, tending to excuse, justify, or absolve the alleged fault or guilt of a defendant.

What are 3 things the prosecutor has discretion deciding?

Prosecutors exercise the most discretion in three areas of decision making: the decision to file charges, the decision to dismiss charges, and plea bargaining.

How common are Brady violations?

Ask any public defender in the country, and they will tell you that Brady violations occur regularly in the courthouse. The National Registry of Exonerations estimates that over 50 percent of wrongful convictions occur because of official misconduct.Apr 25, 2018

Can Prosecutors Spring Evidence on Defendants Like They Do on TV?

No. In the past, prosecutors could guard evidence fromdefendants with the same fervor toddlers show in protecting toy trucks anddolls from their si...

Are Discovery Rules Really Intended to Help Defendants at Trial?

Not exclusively. Sure, advance disclosure promotes fairertrial outcomes, but it also promotes case settlement, which saves judicial timeand resourc...

Does Discovery Mean That The Prosecution Has to Reveal Its Case Strategy?

No. Discovery rules generally distinguish between rawinformation like names of witnesses, police reports, and drug or alcohol testresults, and atto...

Is There A Particular Period of Time Prior to Trial When The Defense Issupposed to Engage in Discovery?

Not really. Prosecutors can’t disclose all discovery on theeve of trial, but on the other hand, they don’t have to divulge it all way aheadof time....

What Laws Govern Federal Defense Discovery Obligations?

Federal criminal discovery is far more limited than that of federal civil discovery. Under Federal Law, there are several cases and statutes that govern federal discovery obligations. Specifically, they are:

What are Defense Discovery Obligations under Rule 16 (b) of the Federal Criminal Procedure?

Rule 16 of the Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure is the only source of governing rules regarding pre-trial discovery in criminal cases. Rule 16 (b) (1) (A)- (C) applies to defense discovery obligations on federal criminal cases.

What is the Timeline For Complying with Defense Discovery Obligations?

If the prosecution moves for reciprocal discovery pursuant to Rule 16 (b) (the defense does not oppose the motion), and the motion is then granted, then the defense must provide such discovery, no later than 30 days prior to trial (or at the date directed by the judge). United States v. Sikut, 488 F. Supp. 2d 291, 304 (W.D.N.Y. 2007).

What is the Penalty for Non-Compliance with Defense Discovery Obligations?

At the request of the prosecution, the prosecution must be provided with a written summary of any expert testimony that intends to be used. United States v. Ulbricht, 858 F.3d 71, 114-115 (2d Cir. 2017).

CONCLUSION

Thus, it is likely that the defense will not be required to disclose expert and investigator reports when these experts and investigators do not intend to testify, even if the government moves for reciprocal discovery, (demanding disclosure of evidence), and their motion is granted.

What should be included in a motion addressing a discovery request?

Any motion addressing a discovery request or dispute should include a statement of counsel for the moving party relating that after consultation with the attorney for the opposing party the parties have been unable to resolve the request or dispute without court action.

Should discovery procedures be applied in criminal cases?

These Standards should be applied in all criminal cases. Discovery procedures may be more limited in cases involving minor offenses, provided the procedures are sufficient to permit the parties adequately to investigate and prepare the case, and to satisfy constitutional requirements.

When, after conferring with opposing as described in Standard 11-4.3, a dispute concerning the manner of place

When, after conferring with opposing as described in Standard 11-4.3, a dispute concerning the manner of place of production, or any other arrangements for disclosing, receiving, inspecting, testing, copying, or photographing material and information has not been resolved between the parties, either party may make a motion seeking an order determining those discovery arrangements.

What happens if a party fails to comply with a discovery obligation?

If a party fails to comply with a discovery obligation, the court should take such action as the interest of justice in the case requires. Any action taken should be preserved in the record of the proceedings. Remedies may include:

What happens after notice and opportunity for any non-moving party or affected person to be heard?

After notice and an opportunity for any non-moving party or affected person to be heard, the court may, consistent with its jurisdiction and authority under law, subject an office or other entity to appropriate sanctions upon a finding on the record that an entity’s policy, custom, or pattern of practice, including the entity’s failure to supervise or train, caused a failure to comply with a discovery obligation in the case.

What is a recorded statement?

A "recorded statement" of a person includes: (i) any statement in writing that is made, signed or adopted by that person; (ii) a stenographic, mechanical, electronic, or other recording, or a transcription thereof, which is a substantially verbatim recital of an oral statement made by that person; and. (iii) the substance of a statement of any kind ...

When should a witness be a witness?

(a) Witnesses should testify in person at a hearing or trial whenever possible. After an indictment or information is filed, upon motion of either party, the court should order a deposition taken to preserve the testimony of a prospective witness other than the defendant, if the court finds that there is a substantial likelihood that the witness will be unavailable to testify and that it is necessary in the interest of justice to take the witness’s deposition.

What is the rule for disclosure of material?

While Rule 16 makes the government's discovery obligationscontingent upon a defendant's request, it is the policywithin this Office to disclose such material regardless ofwhether requested by the defense. Such disclosure must bemade as near the time of arraignment as possible but notlater than the discovery date set by the Court. Disclosureat or before arraignment is encouraged.

When is disclosure required for arraignment?

Disclosure must be made as near the time of arraignment aspossible but not later than the discovery date set by the Court. Disclosure at or before arraignment is encouraged.

Is national security investigation subject to this policy and guidance?

As a general rule, National Security related investigations andprosecutions are not subject to this policy and guidance. Thefollowing is guidance issued by the Department of Justiceconcerning issues pertaining to discovery in cases involvingnational security:

What is substantive communication?

Any substantive e-mail communication from/to an agent who is apotential witness or from/to any witness which relate to theagent's or witness's potential testimony, must be preserved,printed, and timely provided to the U.S. Attorney's Office forreview and for potential use as discovery material just likeany more formal written agency reports. "Substantive"communications include summaries of investigative activity,discussions of the relative merits of evidence,characterization of potential testimony, interactions withwitnesses/victims, and issues relating to credibility. 2. What is not a statement?

What is the Jencks Act?

§ 3500) and Fed. R.Crim. P. 26.2 require disclosure of a witness'sstatements that relate to the subject matter ofthe witness's testimony at trial or a hearing. Both the Jencks Act and Rule 26.2 define"statement" similarly.

What is the rule 26.2(c)?

Rule 26.2(c) provides that where a statement of awitness contains some material that is relevant to the case, butother material that is either privileged or does not relate tothe subject matter of the witness's testimony, the government maycall upon the trial court to review in camera the statement inits entirety and excise any privileged or unrelated portions ofthe statement before it is disclosed to the defense. Thisimplies that the government may not excise such a statement onits own.

What is the discovery process?

The Discovery Process is Federal Criminal Cases. Federal criminal cases commonly feature numerous defendants, multiple criminal counts charged by the government, and extensive investigation by federal law enforcement agencies which can span multiple years. Accordingly, the amount of discovery materials which are turned over must be reviewed by ...

Which amendment protects the right of the accused to due process of law?

The federal criminal defendant’s right to inspect the government’s evidence against them is deeply rooted in the traditions and laws of the United States. The Fifth Amendment to the United States constitution protects the right of the accused to due process of law.

What is discovery in criminal cases?

Discovery in federal criminal cases is usually more than one exchange at the arraignment. In most cases, the production of discovery will continue throughout the case, and even into the trial. It’s crucial for the defense lawyer to closely monitor any potential abusive discovery practices by the prosecutor and to voice any suspicious practice ...

What is the Brady v. Maryland case?

The landmark case of Brady v. Maryland codifies the government’s obligation to provide material, exculpatory evidence to the defense before trial. The two prongs of the Brady standard are often litigated between the parties in a federal criminal case. To qualify as a required disclosure, the evidence at issue must be material.

What is the rule 16?

Rule 16 Discovery and Inspection. Rule 16 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure is a primary source that governs discovery in federal criminal cases. Under this Rule, after a defendant makes a demand on the prosecutor, they are required to produce the discovery. These items include documents or other items they intend to use at trial, ...

What is the Jencks Act?

The Jencks Act under 18 U.S.C § 3500 is also a source of discovery for federal criminal defendants. Under this Act, the prosecutor who is calling a witness is required to produce any recorded statements in reference to their testimony.

Why is discovery important?

Discovery is likely a significant reason why at least 90% of criminal cases settle before trial. Issues regarding settlement aside, discovery is intended to help defendants in the sense that prosecutors must hand over certain information that's helpful to the defense.

What is Vy Tummin charged with?

Vy Tummin is charged with assault and battery on a police officer. Vy claims that she reacted in self-defense to the police officer's use of illegal force. The prosecutor plans to show a videotape of the incident to the jury. The prosecutor also has prepared a file memorandum as a self-reminder about what portions of the tape to emphasize during the trial and why those portions are especially significant. Vy's lawyer demands to see the videotape and all the prosecutor's trial memoranda. Discovery rules allow Vy's lawyer to see the videotape. But the prosecutor won't have to turn over the memorandum. The memo is the prosecutor's work product because it contains strategic analysis.

When Must the Discovery Conference Be Held?

The deadline for holding the discovery conference is listed on the Notice of Institution that’s sent by the TTAB to each of the parties shortly after the opposition is filed. The deadline is typically 30 days from the date on which the defendant must file its answer to the notice of opposition .

What are the Requirements?

At a minimum, the parties are required to discuss the following topics during the discovery conference:

What Happens After the Discovery Conference?

Usually one of two things happens after the discovery conference. If both parties are interested in exploring settlement of the opposition, they will frequently agree to suspend the opposition for a period of time so that they can engage in settlement negotiations without worrying about other upcoming opposition deadlines.

Do You Need Assistance with the Discovery Conference?

I’m experienced US trademark attorney Morris Turek. If you’re involved in a trademark opposition and it’s time to hold the discovery conference, you may want to seek professional legal counsel to speak on your behalf and to discuss with the other party the potential for settling and/or abbreviating the opposition.

When was the discovery deadline extended?

The parties filed a consent motion to modify the scheduling order, and on June 11, 2018, the court granted the motion and extended the discovery deadline to August 10, 2018.

When did the discovery dispute start?

On September 5, 2018, the parties informed the court of an unresolved discovery dispute that had been festering since the previous June 2018. Discovery began about seven months before the discovery dispute was brought to the attention of the court.

What Laws Govern Federal Defense Discovery Obligations?

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Federal criminal discovery is far more limited than that of federal civil discovery. Under Federal Law, there are several cases and statutes that govern federal discovery obligations. Specifically, they are: 1. Brady v. Maryland– a Supreme Court case from 1963 that held that evidence that exonerates the Defen…
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What Is The Timeline For Complying with Defense Discovery Obligations?

  • If the prosecution moves for reciprocal discovery pursuant to Rule 16(b) (the defense does not oppose the motion), and the motion is then granted, then the defense must provide such discovery, no later than 30 days prior to trial (or at the date directed by the judge). United States v. Sikut, 488 F. Supp. 2d 291, 304 (W.D.N.Y. 2007). In Sikut, the defendant did not oppose the pros…
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What Is The Penalty For Non-Compliance with Defense Discovery Obligations?

  • At the request of the prosecution, the prosecution must be provided with a written summary of any expert testimony that intends to be used. United States v. Ulbricht, 858 F.3d 71, 114-115 (2d Cir. 2017). If this summary is not provided on time, or does not describe the witness’s opinions, the bases and reasons for those opinions, and the witness’s qualifications, then the summary wi…
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Conclusion

  • Thus, it is likely that the defense will not be required to disclose expert and investigator reports when these experts and investigators do not intend to testify, even if the government moves for reciprocal discovery, (demanding disclosure of evidence), and their motion is granted. However, if the expert and/or investigator do decide to testify, then under Rule 16(b), we must prepare to pro…
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Part I. General Principles

  • Standard 11-1.1 Definitions For purposes of these Standards: (a) Case. “Case” means the prosecution of the crimes charged, including sentencing, and the investigation leading to those charges. (b) Defense. “Defense” includes every defense attorney who has participated in defending the case, members of their legal or investigative staff in the case, and the defendant. (…
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Part II. Discovery Obligations of The Prosecution and Defense

  • Standard 11-2.1 Prosecutorial disclosure (a) Obligation of the prosecutor to identify and gather information and material. As soon as practicable, the prosecutor should with reasonable diligence seek to identify and gather all information and material relevant to the case, including information and material described in subsection (c) of this Standard in the possession or control of the pro…
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Part III. Special Discovery Procedures

  • Standard 11-3.1 Counsel should confer regarding substantial, complex, or non-routine discovery In cases involving substantial, complex, or non-routine discovery, counsel should meet and confer about the nature, volume, and procedures for producing discovery. After conferring, counsel should notify the court of discovery production issues or problems that they reasonably anticipa…
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Part IV. Manner of Conducting Discovery

  • Standard 11-4.1 Manner of performing disclosure Disclosure may be accomplished in any manner mutually agreeable to the parties. Absent agreement, counsel for the party having the burden of production should: (a) notify opposing counsel that material and information, described in general terms, may be disclosed, received, inspected, obtained, tested, copied, or photographed during s…
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Part v. Depositions

  • Standard 11-5.1 Depositions necessary to preserve testimony (a) Witnesses should testify in person at a hearing or trial whenever possible. After an indictment or information is filed, upon motion of either party, the court should order a deposition taken to preserve the testimony of a prospective witness other than the defendant, if the court finds that there is a substantial likeliho…
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Part VI. Limitations on Disclosure

  • Standard 11-6.1 Automatic limitations (a) A party may withhold the following information and material from disclosure under these Standards, unless the party whose obligation it is to disclose intends to offer the information and material at a hearing or trial: i. Legal research, records, correspondence, reports, or memoranda made by the prosecutor or any defense attorney in the …
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Part Vii.Non-Compliance and Remedies

  • Standard 11-7.1 Objectives of discovery remedies Objectives of remedies for failure to comply with an applicable discovery obligation include: (a) Ensuring prompt and full compliance with discovery obligations; (b) Mitigating prejudice to a party, victim, witnesses, or the administration of justice; (c) Minimizing disruption to the case and criminal proceeding; and (d) Avoiding or rem…
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Part VIII Sanctions For Non-Compliance

  • Standard 11-8.1 Objectives of discovery sanctions Objectives of sanctions for failure to comply with applicable discovery obligations are: (a) Punishing blameworthy disregard of discovery obligations; and (b) Deterring disregard of discovery obligations. Standard 11-8.2 Imposing sanctions on individuals After notice and an opportunity for any non-moving party or affected pe…
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The Discovery Process Is Federal Criminal Cases

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Federal criminal cases commonly feature numerous defendants, multiple criminal counts charged by the government, and extensive investigation by federal law enforcement agencies which can span multiple years. Accordingly, the amount of discovery materials which are turned over must be reviewed by a federal criminal …
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Brady v. Maryland

  • The federal criminal defendant’s right to inspect the government’s evidence against them is deeply rooted in the traditions and laws of the United States. The Fifth Amendment to the United States constitution protects the right of the accused to due process of law. This includes being entitled to understand the evidence which will be presented by the government should the case …
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Credibility of Witnesses

  • Subsequent cases have extended the Brady standard to evidence which impeaches, meaning undermines the credibility of, a witness. Imagine the following scenario. The government has a witness who claims to have personally observed the defendant buying drugsin a large quantity. The government intends to call this witness at trial as his testimony will be very probative of the …
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Rule 16 Discovery and Inspection

  • Rule 16of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure is a primary source that governs discovery in federal criminal cases. Under this Rule, after a defendant makes a demand on the prosecutor, they are required to produce the discovery. These items include documents or other items they intend to use at trial, oral statements by defendant before or after arrest, written statements by defend…
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Jencks Act – 18 U.S.C § 3500

  • The Jencks Actunder 18 U.S.C § 3500 is also a source of discovery for federal criminal defendants. Under this Act, the prosecutor who is calling a witness is required to produce any recorded statements in reference to their testimony. 18 U.S.C § 3500 is a demand for production of statements and reports on witnesses. For instance, let’s say the prosecutor calls an alleged vi…
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Motion to Compel Discovery

  • Federal criminal case discovery is often produced in multiple productions. This process can last months or even years. Unlike state cases which frequently feature a few witnesses, typically law enforcement officers, federal investigations often span years and involve sophisticated techniques such as wiretaps, electronic surveillance, undercover operations, and the involvemen…
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When Must The Discovery Conference Be held?

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The deadline for holding the discovery conference is listed on the Notice of Institution that’s sent by the TTAB to each of the parties shortly after the opposition is filed. The deadline is typically 30 days from the date on which the defendant must file its answer to the notice of opposition. If the parties mutually agree to ex…
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What Are The Requirements?

  • At a minimum, the parties are required to discuss the following topics during the discovery conference: 1. The nature and basis of their claims and defenses 2. The possibility of narrowing the scope of their claims and defenses 3. The possibility of settling the opposition in its entirety 4. Preserving discoverable information and materials 5. Arrangements for disclosures and discove…
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What Happens After The Discovery Conference?

  • Usually one of two things happens after the discovery conference. If both parties are interested in exploring settlement of the opposition, they will frequently agree to suspend the opposition for a period of time so that they can engage in settlement negotiations without worrying about other upcoming opposition deadlines. On the other hand, if it’s clear that an amicable resolution to th…
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Do You Need Assistance with The Discovery Conference?

  • I’m experienced US trademark attorney Morris Turek. If you’re involved in a trademark opposition and it’s time to hold the discovery conference, you may want to seek professional legal counsel to speak on your behalf and to discuss with the other party the potential for settling and/or abbreviating the opposition. You can reach me at (314) 749-4059, via email at morris@yourtrade…
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