What is the primary purpose of CPLR § 3101?

The primary purpose of CPLR § 3101 is to outline the scope of disclosure and discovery in civil litigation. This section of the Civil Practice Law and Rules sets forth the fundamental principle that parties in a lawsuit have the right to obtain disclosure of all evidence that is material and necessary to the prosecution or defense of their case. This broad scope enables parties to gather pertinent information that may not be readily available or visible, thus promoting a fair and just resolution of disputes.

The importance of this provision lies in its intention to facilitate transparency and prevent surprise at trial, ensuring that all relevant facts and materials are disclosed beforehand. This openness helps the parties to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their cases and encourages settlements, thereby potentially reducing the burden on the courts.

In contrast, the other options address different aspects of civil practice. While some involve procedural elements such as filing lawsuits, jury selection, or contempt of court, they do not directly speak to the disclosure and discovery processes that are central to CPLR § 3101. Thus, the focus on the scope of disclosure and discovery distinguishes this provision as a vital component of effective civil litigation practices.