splitting a cause of action
splitting a cause of action. Separating parts of a demand and pursuing it piecemeal; presenting only a part of a claim in one lawsuit, leaving the rest for a second suit. • This practice has long been considered procedurally impermissible. [Cases: Action 53; Judgment 591. C.J.S. Actions §§ 177–203; Judgments §§ 761, 764–765.]