Select your state

Civil procedure

severance of claims

A severance splits a single lawsuit into two or more independent lawsuits, each of which results in an appealable final judgment. When a trial court grants a severance, the separated causes of action typically proceed to individual judgments—judgments that are themselves separately final and appealable. Causes of action that have been severed from each other into independent lawsuits will be heard by different juries.

In Iowa, severance of legal claims is governed by the Iowa Rules of Civil Procedure. When a court grants a severance, it effectively divides a single lawsuit into two or more separate lawsuits, each proceeding independently to a final judgment. This process allows for each claim or cause of action to be resolved on its own merits, potentially before different juries, and each judgment is appealable. Severance can be particularly useful in complex litigation where issues are distinct and would benefit from separate trials to avoid confusion and prejudice. The decision to grant a severance is at the discretion of the trial court and is based on considerations of judicial economy, convenience, and the risk of prejudice to the parties. Once severed, each case proceeds as if it had been initiated separately, and the outcomes can be appealed independently, allowing for more focused appellate review.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil procedure

severance of claims

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Iowa State Code

Iowa State Code

Civil procedure

severance of claims

Articles