What does the principle of "fairness" in joinder aim to ensure?

The principle of "fairness" in joinder is primarily concerned with preventing undue prejudice to any party involved in the litigation process. This principle aims to ensure that no party is put at a substantial disadvantage simply due to the procedural dynamics of the case. When multiple parties or claims are joined in a single lawsuit, it is crucial to maintain a balance where each party can present their case effectively without facing unfair disadvantages arising from the joinder itself.

This focus on fairness considers the potential impact that combining claims or parties may have on the rights and opportunities of each participant. It recognizes that procedural decisions should not sacrifice the fundamental fairness of the litigation process. By ensuring that no party is unduly prejudiced, the court facilitates a more equitable resolution of the disputes at hand, adhering to the principles of justice that underpin the legal system.

The other options, while they touch upon important aspects of the legal process, do not directly reflect the core objective of fairness in joinder. Equal representation, trial efficiency, and equal chances of success, while certainly valuable considerations, do not encapsulate the prioritized concern of avoiding prejudice to any party as the principal aim of fairness in the context of joinder.