Final answer:
In law, a series of written questions directed to an opposing party in a lawsuit is known as 'interrogatories'. They are a crucial part of the discovery process and are answered in writing under oath.
Step-by-step explanation:
A series of written questions directed to an opposing party in a lawsuit is called interrogatories. They are a part of the discovery process in a civil case, where each party is required to disclose relevant information and evidence to the other party. This disclosure process allows both sides to prepare their cases effectively, thereby contributing to the fairness of the adversarial judicial system.
These interrogatories must be answered in writing and under oath, often forming the basis for the development of a party's legal strategy and preparation for trial. Notable cases such as Roe v. Wade or Brown v. Board of Education involve extensive use of legal instruments like interrogatories to clarify the factual landscape of the case. Additionally, in the trial phase, parties present their arguments through briefs, which include arguments and facts drawn from case law and previously gathered during discovery phase.