What is the typical timeline of a class action lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit typically begins when a plaintiff, or group of plaintiffs, files a complaint with a court. The complaint usually identifies the defendants and the legal claims that the plaintiffs are making. In New York, the Central Islip division of the Eastern District of New York has jurisdiction over many class action lawsuits. The court must certify the plaintiffs’ case as a class action, meaning that the claims presented by the group are accepted and the parties are allowed to proceed. At this point, lawyers representing the plaintiffs’ class will submit discovery requests, measured by the court to determine the facts of the case. This includes gathering documents and interviewing parties and witnesses. Depending on the complexity of the case, parties may also use experts to weigh in on complicated legal or technical information. Once discovery is complete, the defendants will file motions and/or responses to the plaintiff’s complaint. The parties will then set a date for a pretrial conference, where the court will consider motions and discuss settlement options with both sides. If a settlement cannot be reached, the parties will move on to the trial stage. At this point, the parties present their evidence to the jury, outside parties can give testimony, and both parties have the chance to address the jury. Finally, the jury will issue a verdict, and the court will issue an order declaring the verdict. Depending on the complexity of the case, the appeals process can also take place. However, this is not always necessary.

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What is the typical timeline of a class action lawsuit?

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