Section 19.9 Scope of Discovery

• Library: Family Law Deskbook and 2014 Supp

B. (§19.9) Scope of Discovery

Under Rule 56.01(b)(1), parties are permitted to seek discovery regarding any matter that is not privileged as long as the matter is relevant to the subject in the pending action. Discoverable information may include:

information concerning “the existence, description, nature, custody, condition and location of any books, documents or other tangible things”; and

“the identity and location of persons having knowledge of any discoverable matter.”

The purpose of discovery is to eliminate the element of surprise during trial and to allow the parties access to all relevant materials. In re Estate of Daly, 907 S.W.2d 200 (Mo. App. W.D. 1995); State ex rel. Mo. Highway & Transp. Comm’n v. McDonald’s Corp., 872...