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 Nebraska, the concept of severance in civil litigation allows a court to split a single lawsuit into two or more separate lawsuits. This procedural mechanism is typically governed by the Nebraska Rules of Civil Procedure. When a severance is granted by a trial court, each cause of action proceeds as an independent lawsuit, potentially leading to separate trials and final judgments. These final judgments are appealable, meaning that the parties can challenge the decisions in a higher court. The purpose of severance is often to streamline complex litigation, avoid prejudice, or accommodate legal issues that are distinct enough to warrant separate proceedings. Once severed, the causes of action may be heard by different juries, ensuring that each case is considered on its own merits without undue influence from the facts or outcomes of the other. It's important for parties considering or facing a severance to consult with an attorney to understand the implications for their specific case, including the potential for separate appeals and the strategic considerations involved.