What does rule 20.12 in federal practice focus on regarding discovery?

Rule 20.12 in federal practice indeed focuses on restricting discovery unless ordered by the court. This rule establishes that parties cannot simply obtain discovery at will; rather, they must demonstrate a need for such discovery and typically seek a court's approval to proceed. This approach helps ensure that discovery is relevant, proportional, and not excessively burdensome for the parties involved, allowing the court to manage the discovery process more effectively.

By requiring a court's order prior to discovery, the rule aims to promote efficiency, limit unnecessary disputes, and encourage cooperation among parties, thus maintaining fair litigation practices. This procedural safeguard is particularly important in complex cases where the potential for vast amounts of information exists, as it helps to streamline the process and focuses efforts on pertinent and actionable material.