What is a class action lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit is a type of civil lawsuit where a large group of people, called a class, is represented by one or more individuals. This type of lawsuit is commonly used when a large number of people have suffered the same or similar harm due to the actions or negligence of another party. In California, a class action lawsuit must meet several criteria before it can be certified by a judge. First, the class must be numerous enough that it would be impracticable and expensive to have each individual sue the defendant separately. Secondly, there must be common questions of law or fact experienced by all of the class members. Thirdly, the claims must have a shared legal or factual basis with those of the opposing party. Fourth, the representative or representatives of the class must have the same interests as the class they are representing. Finally, class members must be represented by lawyers who can adequately litigate the claims of the class. Once the criteria are met, the judge will certify the class action lawsuit, meaning it will be allowed to proceed as a single case. In this situation, all class members will be bound by the court’s decision and any settlement resulting from the case, even if the individual class members did not participate in the lawsuit. It is important to note that individual class members may opt out of a class action lawsuit if they choose.

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What is a class action lawsuit?

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