Rule 29.
Rule 29. Stipulations
Regarding Discovery ProcedureUnless otherwise directed by the court the parties may by stipulation (1) provide that depositions may be taken before any person, at any time or place, upon any notice, and in any manner, and when so taken may be used like other depositions, and (2) modify other procedures governing or limitations placed upon discovery, except that stipulations extending the time provided in Rules 33, 34, and 36 for responses to discovery may, if they would interfere with any time set for completion of discovery, for hearing of a motion, or for trial, be made only with the approval of the court.
(Amended effective January 1, 1997.)
Advisory
Committee Comment - 1996
Amendment
This change conforms the rule to its federal counterpart. The committee believes it is desirable to permit stipulations regarding discovery whenever those stipulations do not impact the court’s handling of the action. Particularly in state court practice, it is often necessary to extend discovery deadlines–without affecting other case management deadlines–and the parties should be encouraged to do so. Counsel agreeing to discovery after a deadline should not expect court assistance in enforcing discovery obligations nor should non-completion affect any other motions, hearings, or other case management procedures.