What is a class action settlement?

A class action settlement is a legal agreement made between the plaintiff(s) and a defendant in a class action lawsuit in which the defendant agrees to pay monetary compensation or other benefits to the plaintiff(s). The settlement may also include other provisions such as changes to a business practice or other resolution of the dispute. In a class action settlement, the defendant does not have to admit fault or liability but must agree to the terms of the agreement. In West Virginia, the courts have the authority to approve class action settlements, but the settlement must be fair and equitable to all class members. The court reviews the terms of the settlement to make sure that it meets the requirement for class certification, that the attorneys for the class members have properly represented the class, and that the settlement is not unfair or inequitable to any class members. The court must also make sure that the financial terms of the settlement are reasonable. Class action settlements may provide a quick and efficient resolution to a dispute, by providing compensation for a large group of people instead of individual litigation. In addition, settlements may provide benefits which are not available through individual lawsuits, such as changes to a company’s practices or procedures. Class action lawsuits are filed in court regularly in West Virginia. When a settlement is reached, the court approves the settlement and class members are notified of the terms of the settlement. If the settlement is approved, class members may be able to collect their benefits or compensation.

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What is a class action settlement?

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