<P> Lawsuits can become additionally complicated as more parties become involved ( see joinder ) . Within a `` single '' lawsuit , there can be any number of claims and defenses ( all based on numerous laws ) between any number of plaintiffs or defendants . Each of these participants can bring any number of cross claims and counterclaims against each other , and even bring additional parties into the suit on either side after it progresses . In reality however , courts typically have some power to sever claims and parties into separate actions if it is more efficient to do so . A court can do this if there is not a sufficient overlap of factual issues between the various associates , separating the issues into different lawsuits . </P>
<P> Lawsuits can become additionally complicated as more parties become involved ( see joinder ) . Within a `` single '' lawsuit , there can be any number of claims and defenses ( all based on numerous laws ) between any number of plaintiffs or defendants . Each of these participants can bring any number of cross claims and counterclaims against each other , and even bring additional parties into the suit on either side after it progresses . In reality however , courts typically have some power to sever claims and parties into separate actions if it is more efficient to do so . A court can do this if there is not a sufficient overlap of factual issues between the various associates , separating the issues into different lawsuits . </P>
who are the two sides involved in a civil lawsuit
who are the two sides involved in a civil lawsuit
plaintiffs defendants
plaintiffs defendants