Which outcome may result from not establishing fairness in joinder decisions?

Establishing fairness in joinder decisions is crucial because it ensures that all parties involved are treated equitably in the legal process. If fairness is not established, it can lead to outcomes that unduly favor one party, creating an imbalance in legal proceedings. This could manifest in several ways, such as allowing one side to introduce claims or defenses that are not relevant to the other side, or consolidating cases in a manner that disadvantages a party due to procedural or strategic advantages.

The notion of fairness in this context emphasizes the importance of balance and impartiality in legal judgments. Ensuring that all parties have an equal opportunity to present their cases helps maintain the integrity of the judicial process. When fairness is compromised, it often results in perceptions of injustice and can undermine confidence in the legal system.

In contrast, factors such as equal consideration of parties, benefits solely for the plaintiff, or a blanket guarantee of fairness in every case do not accurately reflect the complexities of legal joinder decisions. Fairness must be actively pursued; its absence can naturally lead to favoritism and partiality.