separable controversy

Main Entry: sep·a·ra·ble controversy
Pronunciation: 'se-p&-r&-b&l-
Function: noun
: a separate and independent claim or cause of action that by itself is removable to the federal courts even though it is joined with others that are not removable
NOTE: If a case involves a separable controversy, the entire case may be removed and determined as a whole, or the court may remand those matters that were not removable and determine the rest.