What does 'full disclosure' mean in legal proceedings?

Full disclosure in legal proceedings refers to the obligation to reveal all pertinent information that could affect the outcome of a case. This principle ensures that both parties have access to the same information, which promotes fairness and transparency in the judicial process. When a party fully discloses relevant facts and evidence, it allows the court to make informed decisions based on a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding the case.

Providing only relevant evidence does not capture the full scope of what is required; full disclosure encompasses all pertinent information, not just what one party chooses to present as relevant. The obligation to disclose witness identities is a specific aspect of legal proceedings but does not represent the broader requirement of full disclosure. Sharing legal fees with the opposing party is unrelated to the concept of full disclosure, as it pertains more to financial arrangements rather than the exchange of information. Therefore, the definition that encompasses the essence of full disclosure is accurately captured in the notion of revealing all pertinent information.