Before filing, the right approach is a disciplined, checklist-driven party-mapping process: start with a factual timeline and issue map to identify who owns rights or obligations affected by the dispute, then run document and title reviews (contracts, leases, corporate records, insurance policies, registration searches) and interview key witnesses to surface hidden stakeholders. Next, classify each person or entity as “necessary,” “proper,” or “nominal” based on whether complete relief can be granted without them or whether their absence risks inconsistent obligations; draft alternative and contingent causes of action and third-party/indemnity claims so relief survives later additions; and confirm correct legal names and service details. Best lawyers also run identity/name checks, consult subject-matter counsel (e.g., corporate, tax, or property specialists) for complex interests, use a pre-filing party checklist that’s revisited at each case milestone, and—where appropriate—send pre-suit notices or join parties voluntarily to avoid surprises. Doing all this early preserves remedies, reduces the risk of dismissal for non-joinder, and keeps litigation efficient and defensible.
