Intervention of Parties (N.C.R. Civ. P. 24)
Intervention as a Matter of Right
"We review de novo the grant of intervention of right under Rule 24(a). Holly Ridge Assocs. v. N.C. Dep't of Env't & Natural Res., 361 N.C. 531, 538, 648 S.E.2d 830, 835 (2007).
"The prospective intervenor seeking such intervention as a matter of right under Rule 24(a)(2) must show that (1) it has a direct and immediate interest relating to the property or transaction, (2) denying intervention would result in a practical impairment of the protection of that interest, and (3) there is inadequate representation of that interest by existing parties. Virmani v. Presbyterian Health Servs. Corp., 350 N.C. 449, 459, 515 S.E.2d 675, 683 (1999).
Permissive Intervention
"[P]ermissive intervention by a private party under Rule 24(b) rests within the sound discretion of the trial court and will not be disturbed on appeal unless there was an abuse of discretion. Virmani v. Presbyterian Health Servs. Corp., 350 N.C. 449, 460, 515 S.E.2d 675, 683 (1999).