ABSTRACT
While the legal strategies and nuances of initiating litigation and, particularly, the discovery process far exceed the scope of this chapter, it provides a summary of these processes and discusses the role of the legal nurse consultant (LNC) in discovery. Management of pretrial discovery is the domain of the attorney, but the LNC is a valuable asset in discovery in cases involving medical issues and may play a major role in case development using specialized knowledge. The LNC and the expert witness who master a basic understanding of the ethical guidelines and rules that govern the process of discovery stand ready to assist the attorney in the presentation of a formidable case or in the vigorous defense of a defendant. By staying informed of evolving case law, rules of court, and advancing technology, the LNC promotes the intent of the law in the exchange of information.
