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 Wyoming, severance of actions is governed by the Wyoming Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically Rule 42(b), which allows a court to order a severance of claims for convenience, to avoid prejudice, or to expedite and economize the proceedings. When a severance is granted, each resulting lawsuit operates independently, and each can lead to an appealable final judgment. This means that the claims that have been separated can be tried by different juries and result in separate verdicts. The decision to sever is at the discretion of the trial court and is typically used to ensure a fair and efficient process when multiple claims or parties are involved. It's important for parties to understand that once severed, each case proceeds on its own track and may have different outcomes, which can be individually appealed. An attorney can provide specific guidance on how severance might affect the strategy and management of a case in Wyoming courts.

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

Wyoming State Code

Wyoming State Code

Civil procedure

severance of claims

Articles