Need to file a crossclaim against a co-defendant? Use this professionally drafted sample crossclaim template to assert your legal position with precision and confidence.

When you’re drawn into a lawsuit with co-defendants or co-plaintiffs—and you believe one of them should share the blame—filing a crossclaim helps protect your interests.

Use this clean, adaptable sample crossclaim template to frame your claim for contribution, indemnity, or liability in civil litigation.

⚠️ Note: Always customize this template to fit your jurisdiction’s rules and the facts of your case. This is a general-use example for informational purposes only.

📝 Crossclaim Template

IN THE [COURT NAME] OF [JURISDICTION]

[PLAINTIFF’S NAME], Plaintiff, v. [DEFENDANT 1’S NAME], Defendant.

Case No. [XXXXXXX]

___________________________________________ CROSSCLAIM ___________________________________________

Defendant [Defendant 1’s Name], by and through undersigned counsel, hereby asserts this crossclaim against Defendant [Defendant 2’s Name], and in support thereof states:

### I. INTRODUCTION

1. This crossclaim is brought under Rule 13(g) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (or applicable state rule), as the claims arise out of the same transaction or occurrence that is the subject of the Plaintiff’s complaint. 2. Defendant [Defendant 1] seeks [indemnity/contribution/damages] from Defendant [Defendant 2] related to claims alleged in the original complaint.

### II. PARTIES

3. Defendant [Defendant 1’s Name] is a co-defendant in this action. 4. Defendant [Defendant 2’s Name] is also a named co-defendant in the Plaintiff’s complaint.

### III. FACTUAL ALLEGATIONS

5. On or about [Date], the events giving rise to the Plaintiff’s claims occurred. 6. Defendant [Defendant 2] was [directly involved/responsible/negligent/etc.] in relation to the events alleged by the Plaintiff. 7. Defendant [Defendant 1] denies responsibility for the alleged harm and asserts that Defendant [Defendant 2] is solely or jointly liable. 8. As such, Defendant [Defendant 1] seeks indemnity and/or contribution for any judgment rendered against them.

### IV. LEGAL BASIS FOR CROSSCLAIM

9. This crossclaim is based on [choose: common law indemnity, contractual indemnity, contribution, negligence, etc.]. 10. Defendant [Defendant 2] is liable to Defendant [Defendant 1] for any portion of damages awarded to the Plaintiff arising from the same incident or transaction.

### V. RELIEF REQUESTED

WHEREFORE, Defendant [Defendant 1] respectfully requests that this Court:

a. Declare that Defendant [Defendant 2] is liable for all or part of the damages alleged by the Plaintiff; b. Order indemnification and/or contribution for any judgment or settlement; c. Award costs, fees, and any further relief deemed just and proper.

### VI. JURY DEMAND

11. Defendant [Defendant 1] demands a trial by jury on all issues so triable.

Dated: [Date]

Respectfully submitted,

____________________________________ [Attorney Name] [Law Firm Name] [Address] [Phone] [Email] Attorney for Defendant [Defendant 1’s Name]

📦 Certificate of Service (Sample)

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

I hereby certify that on [Date], a true and correct copy of the foregoing Crossclaim was served upon all counsel of record via [method of service].

____________________________________ [Attorney’s Name]

✅ Tips for Using This Template Effectively

• 📌 Jurisdiction Check: Ensure the court has authority over both parties and the claims.

• 📌 Factual Accuracy: Tie your allegations to the underlying incident and back them with evidence.

• 📌 Legal Grounds: Be specific—don’t just say “liable.” Cite indemnity, contribution, breach, etc.

• 📌 Filing Rules: Follow your court’s procedural rules for filing and serving the crossclaim.

• 📌 Use Strategically: A strong crossclaim can shift blame, enhance settlement leverage, and protect your interests.

Final Thoughts

Crossclaims aren’t just procedural—they’re tactical. Whether you’re protecting yourself from co-defendant liability or seeking to recover damages, this template helps you assert your claim with structure and clarity.

🛡️ Need Help Filing a Crossclaim?

At Legal Husk, we help defendants use crossclaims to shift blame, claim relief, and defend their position in multi-party litigation.

📌 Don’t get stuck holding the bag—file smart.

👉 Visit:
🔗 legalhusk.com
🔗 legalhusk.com/services
🔗 legalhusk.com/services/civil-litigation
🔗 legalhusk.com/about-us

💬 Pro Tip: File your crossclaim early—before your co-party makes you their legal scapegoat.

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Ready for a court-ready crossclaim at a predictable price? Contact Legal Husk and let us draft your next crossclaim with precision and clarity.