Rule 22. Interpleader

(a) Grounds

(1) Generally Interpleader is a procedure where one holding money or property subject to adverse claims may seek to avoid multiple liability by joining in a single action anyone who asserts or may assert claims to the money or property.

(2) By a Plaintiff A plaintiff may join as a defendant anyone who asserts or may assert a claim to the money or property.

(3) By a Defendant A defendant may seek interpleader through a crossclaim or counterclaim.

(4) Propriety of Interpleader Interpleader is proper even though:

(A) the claims, or the titles on which the claims depend, do not have a common origin or are adverse and independent rather than identical; or

(B) the party requesting interpleader denies liability in whole or in part to any or all of the claimants.

(b) Release from Liability upon Deposit or Delivery A party requesting interpleader under Rule 22(a) may move the court for an order discharging that party from liability to the claimants. The court may discharge the party upon:

(1) the party's deposit in court of the money claimed; or

(2) the party's delivery of the property as the court directs.

(c) Relation to Other Rules This rule supplements--and does not limit--the joinder of parties allowed by Rule 20.