What is a key characteristic of the discovery process in federal cases?

In the context of the discovery process in federal cases, the correct choice highlights that the process is often limited primarily to information from the prosecution. This is significant because, in federal criminal cases, the government has a duty to disclose evidence that is favorable to the defendant, which can include exculpatory evidence. However, this obligation is not completely reciprocal. The prosecution is not required to share all evidence or provide equal access to information that the defense might have; instead, their disclosures are usually more bounded and strategic in nature.

The limited nature of discovery in federal cases means that while the defendant might receive certain types of evidence from the prosecution, they are not guaranteed comprehensive access to all types of evidence that may exist. This can create ongoing challenges for defendants in preparing their cases, as they may not have the same level of access to evidence compared to what the prosecution possesses.

The other choices suggest a more expansive view of the discovery process or incorrect assumptions about its existence in federal cases, which do not accurately reflect the reality of how discovery functions under federal rules.