The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure are a set of rules that govern civil legal proceedings in the federal courts of the United States. They provide guidelines for how lawsuits are filed, how parties exchange information, and how trials are conducted. These rules aim to ensure fairness, efficiency, and consistency in the judicial process. Established in 1938, the rules are periodically updated to reflect changes in law and practice. They cover various aspects of civil litigation, including pleadings, discovery, and judgments. The rules help streamline the legal process, making it easier for individuals and businesses to resolve disputes in federal court.