For what reason can a party serve requests for production of documents on non-parties?

Serving requests for production of documents on non-parties is primarily done to gather evidence without requiring a court order. This process allows a party to obtain relevant documents or information that may not be readily accessible, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of the case at hand. In civil litigation, obtaining documents from non-parties can be essential for establishing the facts, supporting claims, or defending against allegations effectively.

The ability to serve these requests directly to non-parties streamlines the discovery process and encourages transparency by allowing parties to collect pertinent evidence directly rather than relying solely on issues that arise within the context of the case.

This mechanism is part of the broader discovery rules that encourage the exchange of information and documents, which can ultimately lead to more efficient trials and resolution of disputes. Options such as extending the time for discovery, easing the burden of trial procedures, or avoiding legal formalities do not correctly represent the specific purpose and legality of serving production requests on non-parties.