Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

What action allows a third person to join a lawsuit?

1. Interlocutory order

2. Intervention

3. Interlineation

4. Involuntary proceedings

The correct answer is: Intervention

Intervention is the formal process that enables a third party to join an ongoing lawsuit. This legal mechanism is essential when the third party has a significant interest in the outcome of the case, such that their rights or obligations could be affected by the court's decision. The purpose of intervention is to promote efficiency in the legal process and ensure that all parties with relevant stakes can present their arguments and evidence. When a party seeks to intervene, they must typically file a motion with the court. This motion outlines their interest in the case, and the court will consider factors such as whether the intervention will unduly delay or prejudice the adjudication of the original parties' rights. If the court grants the motion, the intervenor becomes a party to the lawsuit, allowing them to participate fully. In contrast, an interlocutory order refers to a temporary court order made during the course of litigation, and while it can affect the proceedings, it does not pertain to adding new parties. Interlineation involves making amendments or alterations to documents, generally in a way that modifies existing pleadings. Involuntary proceedings relate to legal actions that are initiated without the consent of the affected party, such as bankruptcy proceedings, and do not specifically address the inclusion of additional parties in