What is a Class Action Lawsuit?

In today’s world, it’s common to hear about class action lawsuits in the news. But what exactly is a class action lawsuit? In simple terms, a class action lawsuit is a legal case brought by a group of individuals, known as a class, who have been similarly harmed or injured by the same defendant.

Class Action Lawsuit Definition

Class action lawsuits are an important tool for holding large corporations and institutions accountable for their actions. They provide a way for people who have been harmed to band together and seek justice as a group instead of filing individual lawsuits.

Common types of class action lawsuits include:

• Breaches of securities law
• Predatory lending
• Employment and wrongful termination
• Product Defects
• Civil Rights
• Defective medications and pharmaceutical or medical devices

For example, a consumer protection class action might be brought against a company that engaged in false advertising or charged customers hidden fees, while an environmental class action might be brought against a polluter who caused harm to a community.

Class Action Lawsuit Process

The process of bringing a class action lawsuit typically begins with a lead plaintiff (or lead plaintiffs) who files a complaint against the defendant on behalf of the entire class. The lead plaintiff must show that there are enough members in the class to make it impractical for each individual to file a separate lawsuit, and that common issues of fact or law apply to all members of the class.

Once the class has been certified by a judge, the lawsuit can proceed. Class members are notified of the lawsuit and given the opportunity to opt out if they prefer to pursue their own claims. If the case is successful, the damages are distributed among the class members in proportion to the harm they suffered. –

While class action lawsuits can be a powerful tool for seeking justice, they can also be complex and time-consuming. It’s important to consult with an experienced attorney to learn more about your potential claim and options.

Contact an Attorney on a Class Action Lawsuit

If you have questions about your options related to a class action lawsuit, reach out to our team. We can have a conversation and evaluate your claims.

The information contained herein is for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.