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.