A device for settling cases that involves multiple defendants, with one or more defendants paying money to plaintiff in exchange for a release from further liability, but with an ongoing role to participate in the trial of the case, a portion of any monies received by the plaintiff from other defendant(s) is paid to the settling defendant(s). n. master 1 A special official appointed by a court to assist it, typically by making findings or rulings pertaining to matters specified by the court, ...