Rule 2226.Definitions.

The joinder chapter has a single definition. An “action” is any civil action or proceeding brought in or appealed to any court of record that is subject to these rules. The joinder rules therefore apply in a case appealed to a court of record as well as in one begun there.

The rules that follow decide who must or may share a case. Rule 2227 requires persons with only a joint interest to be joined on the same side. Rule 2228 requires spouses, and a minor and parents, to enforce claims from a non-fatal injury in one action. Rule 2229 permits joinder of plaintiffs or defendants whose claims arise from the same transaction or occurrence and share a common question of law or fact. Rules 2231 and 2232 set the effects of joinder and the cures for defective joinder.

The rule was adopted June 7, 1940, effective February 5, 1941, and last amended effective July 1, 2004.