If you are the plaintiff, you can begin discovery 10 days after you serve the first papers in the case or anytime after the defendant files a response. A party has 30 days to respond to written discovery.Once you have filled out the Order to Show Cause and Affidavits for Contempt and the Affidavit of Facts, you need to file them with the court. This page explains the discovery process on a basic level, why and when to use it, and finally, how to go about it. Next, detail the nature of the discovery dispute you are facing. Learn how to properly eFile your documents for your legal case in the San Diego County court system. The person performing the service must sign a proof of service form stating what they served, who it was served on, and the date of the service. Supercharge your discovery calls with our convenient Discovery Call Scheduling Form template. Gather key details upfront to make each call count. This exchange provides opposing parties with enough information and time to prepare for trial.