What is the purpose of Rule 21 in Federal Procedure?

The purpose of Rule 21 in Federal Procedure is specifically to allow the court to drop a party or sever claims. This rule provides the court with the authority to deal effectively with misjoinders or to adjust cases that may have become unwieldy due to the inclusion of too many parties or claims that do not properly belong in a single action. By utilizing Rule 21, the court can maintain order and efficiency in the judicial process by ensuring that only relevant parties and claims are present in a particular lawsuit. This can help avoid confusion and manage trial proceedings more effectively, focusing on the pertinent issues at hand.

The function of Rule 21 is essential for maintaining the integrity of the judicial process, as it grants the court discretion to shape how a case proceeds, ensuring that it aligns with the interests of justice. This flexibility is crucial in complex cases where multiple parties or claims could complicate the core issues being tried. Consequently, the rule empowers judges to streamline cases, thereby promoting efficiency in the legal system.