What is a class action lawsuit?

Class action lawsuits offer several benefits to those who have been harmed, such as allowing large groups of people who are similarly affected to join forces and file a lawsuit against a common defendant. This approach provides a united front for those who have been harmed, especially in cases where the defendant is a large corporation or business with a broad reach.

These lawsuits are often a lifeline for individual claimants who would not have the resources to pursue legal action alone. When people who have been harmed by the same company come together and file as a group, they can retain an attorney to seek justice on their behalf.

Why Do People File Class Action Lawsuits?

By combining your seemingly small claim with other similarly affected people in a class action lawsuit, you have more opportunities to seek justice. This approach also helps the courts by avoiding hearing every individual small claim. Class action lawsuits can be filed for a variety of reasons that cause harm, including:

• defective medication
• illegal business practices
• employee discrimination
• false advertising
• breach of contract

Working with experienced class action lawsuit lawyers can make the daunting process more manageable and help you benefit from this type of legal action.

How Do Class Action Lawsuits Work?

Class action lawsuits streamline the legal process by consolidating many individual claims into a single case, which is presided over by a single judge in a single courtroom. The lead plaintiff is chosen to represent the entire group and can work with their lawyer to update the entire group on the status of the case. This allows other members of the group to take a passive role in the litigation, and simplifies communication for the attorney.

If the court certifies the class, the lawsuit proceeds like a regular lawsuit, but with the lead plaintiff and the class representative acting on behalf of the class members. The parties will engage in discovery, and the court may hold hearings and make rulings on motions and other issues.

If the case does not settle or is not dismissed, the parties will prepare for trial, and the case will be tried before a judge or a jury. If the court or jury finds in favor of the class, damages will be awarded and distributed among the class members.

It is important to note that there are specific rules and procedures that must be followed in order to bring and litigate a class action lawsuit in Texas, and it is highly recommended to consult with a qualified attorney who is familiar with Texas law if you are considering pursuing a class action lawsuit.

Is a Class Action Lawsuit Worth It?

Joining a class action lawsuit may be worthwhile, even if you only have minor damages. While your injuries or losses may seem insignificant, they may be shared by many others affected by a company’s negligence. Pursuing a class action lawsuit can help you seek financial compensation for your damages, and can be more cost-effective than hiring an attorney on your own. Filing with multiple plaintiffs can help you fractionalize the cost of legal fees. Even if your damages are small, the court will still hear your case and your attorney can work to identify and build a class action lawsuit with other affected parties.

If you want to initiate or become part of a class action lawsuit, the first step is to consult with an attorney who specializes in this area of law to evaluate your claim. If the lawyer determines that your case has merit, they will file a complaint on your behalf. Throughout the settlement process, the attorney will support you and work to secure a just and reasonable compensation.