We frequently hear about class action lawsuits on the news, but what exactly are they?
When a company acts in a negligent manner which causes widespread physical or financial damages to consumers, class action lawsuits are a tool for multiple plaintiffs over various jurisdictions to seek compensation. Class action lawsuits are often used for cases involving defective products, dangerous medications, fraudulent marketing, or large scale breaches of contracts.
Class action lawsuits allow for people who have been similarly injured to pool their resources together and challenge larger companies. These large companies can easily outspend an individual when defending themselves in a legal matter, giving them a significant advantage that often wins them the case. However, by bringing many consumers together under one lawsuit, a class action lawsuit gives individuals a fighting chance in litigation. Bringing together consumers also demands the attention of the offending company, forcing them to acknowledge and address the issue in question. Class action lawsuits have historically had an unmistakably important role in holding corporations accountable and protecting consumers.
Class action lawsuits also allow for consumers to hold manufacturers and companies responsible for their negligence, even if the damages are minor. In many cases, the damages resulting from the widespread negligence might not be enough for a single person to rationally file a lawsuit against the company, but by banding together consumers can hold a company accountable for even minor product defects.
Often times a class action lawsuit will settle before making it to court. This means the company will negotiate a deal with the plaintiffs personally, rather than allowing the courts to decide. This deal would answer the grievances of the plaintiffs, as well as give compensation for any damages. Reaching a settlement is usually much cheaper than fully litigating the case.
Through class action lawsuits, plaintiffs can seek compensation for many kinds of damages. Specific damages may include medical bills, economic loss, and expenses incurred while filing and arguing the lawsuit. How this compensation is divided among the victims is determined on a case by case basis
If you have been the victim of fraudulent or negligent behavior by a company, and have reason to believe that you are not alone, contact an experienced and skilled class action lawsuit and personal injury attorney Atlanta GA trusts. Your attorney will be able to help determine if you are eligible to either file a class action lawsuit, or join one that has already begun against the negligent company. Class action lawsuits are how we as consumers defend ourselves from dangerous or reckless behaviors from large companies. Filing these lawsuits not only protect you and your family, but everyone else who might end up being impacted, so there is no time to waste.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Andrew R. Lynch, P.C. for their insight into class action lawsuits.