(a) Discovery Methods. An application for an order to a deponent who is not a party shall be made to the court in the county or city where the deposition is being taken.Instant access to fillable Microsoft Word or PDF forms. Minimize the risk of using outdated forms and eliminate rejected fillings. Discovery is the formal process through which parties involved in legal disputes gather evidence from each other. Notice of the motion: You must provide reasonable notice that you have filed the motion to compel discovery. In Virginia, you must serve written notice at least seven days before the hearing. In a juvenile and domestic relations district court, a party must request permission from the court to conduct formal discovery. The next step is to return the notice to the corresponding party. Deadlines for completing discovery, having the final pretrial conference and then setting a trial date shortly thereafter.