What is a third-party action? How do I file one?
Answer
The Court Help Legal Glossary provides these definitions for third-party actions:
third party: A party to an action who is not the original plaintiff or defendant.
third-party action: When a defendant in a case sues another party and brings him or her into the case.
Article 10, Parties Generally of the Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) contains these provisions on third party practice:
§ 1007. When Third-Party Practice Allowed
§ 1008. Answer of Third-Party Defendant; Defenses
Rule 1009. Claim by Plaintiff Against Third-Party Defendant
Rule 1010. Dismissal or Separate Trial of Third-Party Complaint
Rule 1011. Successive Third-Party Proceedings; Counterclaims