Indiana § 34-51-2-16 - Nonparty defense; pleadings
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 34-51-2-16 — Nonparty defense; pleadings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 34-51-2-16. Nonparty defense; pleadings
Sec. 16. A nonparty defense that is known by the defendant when the defendant files the defendant's first answer shall be pleaded as a part of the first answer. A defendant who gains actual knowledge of a nonparty defense after the filing of an answer may plead the defense with reasonable promptness. However, if the defendant was served with a complaint and summons more than one hundred fifty (150) days before the expiration of the limitation of action applicable to the claimant's claim against the nonparty, the defendant shall plead any nonparty defense not later than forty-five (45) days before the expiration of that limitation of action. The trial court may alter these time limitations or make other suitable time limitations in any manner that is consistent with:
(1) giving the defendant a reasonable opportunity to discover the existence of a nonparty defense; and
(2) giving the claimant a reasonable opportunity to add the nonparty as an additional defendant to the action before the expiration of the period of limitation applicable to the claim.
[Pre-1998 Recodification Citation: 34-4-33-10(c).]
As added by P.L.1-1998, SEC.47.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 34-51-2-16
What does Indiana Code § 34-51-2-16 cover?
Section 34-51-2-16 ("Nonparty defense; pleadings") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 34-51-2-16?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 34-51-2-16" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 34-51-2-16 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.