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Civil procedure

nonsuit

Parties to a lawsuit generally have an absolute right to nonsuit (dismiss) their own claims for relief at any time during the litigation until they have introduced all evidence other than rebuttal evidence at trial.

In Maryland, parties to a lawsuit do indeed have the right to voluntarily dismiss their own claims, which is often referred to as a 'nonsuit.' This right is not absolute, however, as it can be subject to certain conditions and limitations. According to Maryland Rule 2-506, a plaintiff may dismiss an action without a court order by filing a notice of dismissal at any time before the opposing party serves an answer or a motion for summary judgment. If the opposing party has already served an answer or a motion for summary judgment, the action can only be dismissed by filing a stipulation of dismissal signed by all parties who have appeared in the action or by order of the court. Additionally, the right to nonsuit is typically lost once the plaintiff has finished presenting their case-in-chief at trial, meaning they have introduced all evidence except any rebuttal evidence. It's important to note that there may be consequences for taking a nonsuit, such as being responsible for the costs of the lawsuit or limitations on refiling the case.

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Civil procedure

nonsuit

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Civil procedure

nonsuit