Requests for Admissions: Key Insights into Their Legal Significance

Definition & Meaning

A request for admissions is a legal tool used during the discovery phase of a lawsuit. It consists of a set of written statements or questions sent by one party to another, asking them to admit or deny the truth of the statements. The responding party must provide their answers in writing, usually within thirty days, and must affirm the truthfulness of their responses under oath. Any statement admitted in this process is considered true for the purposes of trial evidence.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(hypothetical example) In a personal injury case, one party might send a request for admissions asking the other to admit that they were present at the scene of the accident. If the other party admits this, it simplifies the trial by establishing that fact as true.

State-by-state differences

State Limit on Requests
California 35 requests
New York 25 requests
Texas 30 requests

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Interrogatories Written questions requiring written answers. Interrogatories allow for more detailed responses, while requests for admissions focus on yes/no answers.
Depositions Oral questioning of a witness under oath. Depositions are conducted in person and allow for follow-up questions, unlike written requests for admissions.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you receive a request for admissions, it's important to respond within the specified timeframe. Carefully review each statement and determine whether to admit or deny it. If you're unsure how to respond, consider using US Legal Forms' templates for guidance. For complex situations, consulting a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Typical response time: 30 days
  • Common legal areas: Civil, criminal, family law
  • Potential penalties for non-response: Automatic admissions

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Failure to respond can result in the statements being automatically deemed admitted, which may harm your case.