CONSOLIDATION AND SEPARATION OF TRIALS

(a) Consolidating actions. When two or more civil actions with a common question of law or fact are pending before the court, the judge may: (1) order a joint hearing or trial of any or all matters pertaining to the common question of law or fact; (2) order all the actions consolidated for trial; or (3) make such orders concerning proceedings on the action so as to avoid unnecessary costs or delay. (b) Separate trials. The judge may order a separate trial of any claim in a civil action for reasons of: (1) avoiding prejudice; (2) expediting the resolution of claims in the action; or (3) economical considerations neutral to the litigation. 12