In many civil actions, before the case is resolved there takes place a process known as pretrial discovery. This summary describes this process.This court shall send notices, alerts, and schedule some virtual appearances via E-file and regular clerk systems. This guide is intended to be a summary of basic discovery procedures. Intheblanks form required for any matter originating and electronically filed in Supreme or Surrogate's Courts in Richmond County. Discovery usually takes place before the trial begins. Rule 26.5 deals with judgment without trial after striking out. It does not preclude conducting non-party discovery.