What should a party do if they cannot prepare their Affidavit of Documents within the stipulated time?

When a party cannot prepare their Affidavit of Documents within the stipulated time, notifying the other party in writing and proposing a new timeline is the appropriate step. This approach promotes communication and cooperation between the parties, which is essential in legal proceedings. By notifying the other party, they are kept informed of the situation, which can help maintain a professional rapport and reduce misunderstandings or disputes later on. Proposing a new timeline also allows for the possibility of negotiating a mutually acceptable deadline, which can facilitate the continued progress of the case without undue delays.

This choice aligns with the principles of good faith and fair dealing in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration. It shows respect for the procedural rules and helps to keep the court informed, should any adjustments need to be formalized later.

Other options might lead to complications; for instance, requesting an extension from the court could be unnecessary if the parties are able to negotiate a new timeline themselves. Preparing the document anyway might result in a subpar affidavit that lacks the required thoroughness or detail, potentially harming the party’s position. Ignoring the deadline is not advisable, as it could lead to sanctions or adverse consequences in the ongoing litigation process.