MCR 2.505 allows the court to decide whether to consolidate or sever trials:
“(A) Consolidation. When actions involving a substantial and controlling common question of law or fact are pending before the court, it may
(1) order a joint hearing or trial of any or all the matters in issue in the actions;
(2) order the actions consolidated; and
(3) enter orders concerning the proceedings to avoid unnecessary costs or delay.
(B) Separate Trials. For convenience or to avoid prejudice, or when separate trials will be conducive to expedition and economy, the court may order a separate trial of one or more claims, cross-claims, counterclaims, third-party claims, or issues.”
“Consolidation should not be ordered if the substantial rights of a party would be adversely affected or if juror confusion would result.” Bordeaux v Celotex Corp, 203 Mich App 158, 163-164 (1993). “The decision to sever trials is within the trial judge’s discretion and should be ordered only upon a most persuasive showing.” Hodgins v Times Herald Co, 169 Mich App 245, 261 (1988).
The court rule does not prescribe time requirements.
A trial court’s decision regarding consolidation is reviewed for an abuse of discretion. Bordeaux v Celotex Corp, 203 Mich App 158, 163-164 (1993).