Interrogatories are written questions served on a party during discovery that must be answered in writing and under oath within the time allowed by the Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure. They are one of the formal discovery tools available in addition to the mandatory Rule 49 disclosure.

Interrogatories work best when targeted to specific information that is not available another way. They are useful for identifying financial accounts, business interests, employment history, income sources, and prior proceedings. They are less useful for developing narrative testimony or exploring complex factual disputes, where depositions are usually more effective.

Responses to interrogatories are sworn statements. Evasive, incomplete, or false answers have consequences. Answers that contradict later testimony at trial undermine credibility significantly. Both asking and answering interrogatories require care and precision.

Interrogatories are not always necessary or worth the cost. In a case where Rule 49 disclosure is complete and the financial picture is clear, formal interrogatories may add more expense than value. In a case with hidden assets, a complex business structure, or a party who is not being forthcoming in disclosure, interrogatories can be an important tool. Use them strategically.