Recently, I caught up with a college roommate, Tom, now a CPA at a Big Five public accounting firm, on AOL instant messenger.

The term “informal discovery” has traditionally meant the behind-the-scenes investigation that lawyers undertake to obtain information about their opponent’s case. This can include public records searches, internet queries, and even the use of private detectives.

Seven fourth-graders from the Dever Elementary School in Dorchester premiered at the Moakley Federal Courthouse last month in front of the Honorable Diane Kottmyer to try a mock civil action over the alleged wrongful termination of an employee with FMS (fibromyalgia syndrome).