Interpleader

Interpleader is a form of process in the English courts intended for the protection of a defendant who claims no interest in the subject-matter of a suit, while at the same time he has reason to know that the plaintiff's title is disputed by some other claimant. In such a case the defendant may apply to a judge, who will order the plaintiff and the other claimant to appear and interplead. An application of this kind may now be made in any action in the High Court. Special protection is given to sheriffs, &c. when goods taken in execution are claimed by a third party.