Which Rule governs the permissive joinder of parties in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure?

The permissive joinder of parties in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure is governed by Rule 20. This rule allows multiple parties to join in a single action as plaintiffs or be joined as defendants under specific conditions. It requires that the claims arise out of the same transaction or occurrence and that there is a common question of law or fact among the joined parties.

This framework promotes judicial efficiency and prevents multiple lawsuits relating to the same matter, thereby conserving resources for both the court and the parties involved. The underlying purpose is to facilitate the resolution of disputes in a manner that is practical and just, allowing parties who have related claims or defenses to present their cases together.

Understanding this rule is essential in strategic legal planning, as it can significantly affect how cases are framed and the participation of various parties in a single lawsuit.