Top Class Actions’s website and social media posts use affiliate links. If you make a purchase using such links, we may receive a commission, but it will not result in any additional charges to you. Please review our Affiliate Link Disclosure for more information.
A class action lawsuit is a type of legal action that seeks compensation and other damages on behalf of a group of people who have been adversely affected by similar circumstances. It only takes one person to file a class action lawsuit on behalf of others who have suffered similar harm.
It often makes sense for an individual to pursue a class action lawsuit instead of an individual lawsuit in circumstances when their losses are relatively small, but consumers’ collective losses may be significant. Class action lawsuits are often filed over allegations of product defects, where an individual’s losses may not justify the cost of pursuing litigation. However, if thousands of customers are affected, their collective losses may amount to hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars in damages.
Class action lawsuits may be appropriate when large numbers of people are affected by product defects, dangerous drugs, civil rights violations, financial issues, employment issues and environmental issues.
What is a Class Action Settlement?
In some cases, a defendant will choose to settle a class action lawsuit to avoid the burden and expense of ongoing litigation. In most class action settlements, the defendant will not admit any liability, but will pay an amount that both parties agree upon. Depending on the nature of the settlement, Class Members may be entitled to compensation.
A judge must approve the class action settlement before compensation will be available to Class Members. Sometimes, the settlement terms will authorize the benefits to be automatically sent to the Class Members. In other settlements, Class Members are required to file a claim, which must be reviewed and approved before the Class Member receives the benefits.
Not all class action settlements result in compensation to Class Members. Some companies will agree to make significant changes to their products or their business practices to prevent the alleged harm from continuing in the future.
How Long Does the Process Take?
It can take a long time for a class action lawsuit to work its way through the courts. After a case is filed, the defendant has a chance to respond. The defendant may also attempt to dismiss the class action lawsuit, which can prolong the case.
If the defendant is unable to convince a judge to dismiss a class action lawsuit and does not decide that a class action settlement is appropriate, the case will go to trial. It can take years for a class action lawsuit to go to trial. After a judgment is reached, either party could also appeal the decision, which could cause the litigation to continue for an even longer period of time.
When Will I Receive the Money?
If a court decides in favor of the plaintiff or if a class action settlement is reached, Class Members may be entitled to payment. A judge must approve the timeline for distribution of payments, and the speed at which the payments may be distributed varies based on a number of factors specific to the case.
The best way to find out when you will receive money from a class action settlement is to check the settlement website if there is one. The settlement administrator will post updates to the case, such as if any appeals have been filed or other delays have arisen, or if the checks have been mailed.
Top Class Actions scours the internet for all of the latest class action lawsuits and settlement news. Sign up for our free newsletter or follow us on social media to make sure you don’t miss out on any settlement money you may be entitled to receive. We post information about settlements that you may qualify for and will let you know when to submit claims. You can also check out our Open Settlements section to find out which settlements are currently accepting claims.
How to Find a Class Action Lawyer
Top Class Actions works with a vast network of lawyers. If you know of a defective product, drug or medical device, or if you believe you have been affected by consumer fraud or employment issues, you may have a legal claim.
If you’re thinking of filing a class action lawsuit, you’re probably not the only one who is affected by the same issue. Check out the active investigations page at Top Class Actions to see if attorneys are already looking to represent consumers with your legal issue.
If you don’t see your legal matter listed, submit your information and our lawyer network will review your case for free. If you have a potential case, an attorney will contact you for a free legal consultation. During this consultation, the lawyer will discuss your legal rights and let you know about the steps to take to get started. There is no cost or obligation associated with this legal consultation, so submit your information now to find out if you qualify!
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING
Top Class Actions is a Proud Member of the American Bar Association
LEGAL INFORMATION IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE
Top Class Actions Legal Statement
©2008 – 2024 Top Class Actions® LLC
Various Trademarks held by their respective owners
This website is not intended for viewing or usage by European Union citizens.
