In actions against two or more joint contractors, or joint executors or administrators of a contractor, if it appears on the trial that the plaintiff is barred by the provisions of this chapter as to any of the defendants, but is entitled to recover against any other of them by virtue of a new acknowledgment or promise, or otherwise, judgment shall be given for the plaintiff as to any of the defendants against whom he or she is entitled to recover, and for the other defendant or defendants against the plaintiff.