In many civil actions, before the case is resolved there takes place a process known as pretrial discovery. This summary describes this process.1. The full name and complete last known address of every witness to the occurrence complained of. Formal discovery requires the parties to show their evidence to each other before the trial if asked to do so. If your case does settle during the discovery phase, your attorney will file a notice of it with the court. A form of the notice is appended to the rule. â–« Leaving the notice: â—‹ with an authorized person at the attorney's office;. â—‹ in a reasonable receptacle or location at or within the attorney's office; or. â—‹. Read Rule 222 - Limited and Simplified Discovery in Certain Cases, Ill. Sup. This must happen within 120 days of the defendant filing their answer.