Rule 1.501. Discovery methods

1.501(1) In addition to the disclosures required by rule 1.500, and subject to the timing provisions of rule 1.505, parties may obtain discovery by one or more of the following methods: depositions upon oral examination or written questions; written interrogatories; production of documents or things or permission to enter upon land or other property, for inspection and other purposes; physical and mental examinations; and requests for admission.

1.501(2) The rules providing for discovery and inspection should be liberally construed, administered, and employed by the court and the parties to secure the just, speedy, and inexpensive determination of every action and proceeding and to provide the parties with access to all relevant facts.

1.501(3) Discovery must be conducted in good faith, and responses to discovery requests, however made, must fairly address and meet the substance of the request. Any discovery motion presented to the court must include a certification that the movant has in good faith personally spoken with or attempted to speak with other affected parties in an effort to resolve the dispute without court action. The certification must identify the date and time of any conference or attempts to confer. COMMENT: Rule 1.501(3). The rule makes the certification of conference requirement apply to all discovery motions. A similar provision is contained in rule 1.504(3) governing motions for protective order and in rule 1.517(5) governing sanctions and motions to compel. Telephonic conferences satisfy the conference requirement of these rules.

1.501(4) A rule requiring a matter to be under oath may be satisfied by an unsworn written statement in substantially the following form: “I certify under penalty of perjury and pursuant to the laws of the state of Iowa that the preceding is true and correct. ____________________ ____________________ Date Signature”