When can an issue not raised by the pleadings be treated as if it had been?

The option that states an issue may be treated as if it had been raised in the pleadings when all parties consent to it being tried is correct. This principle is rooted in the idea of judicial efficiency and fairness in the resolution of disputes. If all parties are aware of the issue and agree to let it be tried, courts can proceed with that issue without the necessity of formal pleadings. This consent from all parties indicates that there is no surprise or prejudice involved, as all parties are prepared to address the issue during the proceedings.

This approach aligns with the goal of fostering a comprehensive examination of the relevant matters in a case, allowing for a more just and expedient resolution. Courts often aim to avoid unnecessary technicalities that could inhibit the fair administration of justice, especially when parties have effectively steered the trial to encompass certain aspects of a case, even if those aspects were not specifically listed in the original pleadings.

While the other options discuss situations where an issue might be presented or referenced, they do not provide the same level of formal acceptance and agreement that makes the first option applicable.