What is the typical timeline of a class action lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit is a legal action taken by a group of people on behalf of all individuals who have suffered an injury due to the same wrongdoer. In North Carolina, class action lawsuits are governed by the North Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. The typical timeline of a class action lawsuit typically involves the following steps: 1. Initial Complaint – A group of individuals file a complaint with the court outlining the facts and legal theories behind the case. This document is the basis for the lawsuit and must contain sufficient evidence to support the claims. 2. Certification of Class – The court must certify the case as a class action, which is a process that enables individuals to join together and represent their interests collectively. 3. Discovery – The parties to the lawsuit exchange information and evidence before trial. 4. Settlement or Trial – A settlement is typically the goal of a class action lawsuit; however, if settlement negotiations fail, the case may proceed to trial. 5. Appeals – If either party is dissatisfied with the outcome of the trial, they may appeal the decision to a higher court. The timeline for a class action lawsuit varies depending on the complexity of the case, the court schedule, and the cooperation of the parties involved. Generally speaking, class action lawsuits can take months or even years to reach a final resolution.

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What is the typical timeline of a class action lawsuit?

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