What happens when the class action lawsuit goes to trial?

When a class action lawsuit goes to trial in Florida, the process may vary depending on the specifics of the case. Generally, the class representative will present their arguments on behalf of the group they are representing. If the case involves multiple defendants, each one will also present their defense. The judge will then hear from witnesses, review evidence, and decide whether the defendant is liable for damages. If the judge finds the defendant liable, the court will then decide how much the defendant should pay in restitution. The defendant can appeal the decision if they feel the judgement is unfair. After the judgement is finalized, the party responsible for the damages will pay the class representative, who will in turn distribute the payment among the members of the group they are representing. The exact details of how the payments are distributed will be determined by the court, based on the facts of the case. In some cases, if the judgement is large enough, the judge may require the defendant to fund a trust to help cover the legal fees associated with the case, as well as provide additional funds to the class members as restitution. The exact requirements of this trust will depend on the specifics of the case and the judgement awarded by the court. Once the judge has issued a judgement, a class member may choose not to accept its ruling and pursue their own individual case against the defendant. This is called “opting out” and allows the class member to pursue a separate, individual lawsuit. The outcome of their individual case may differ from the outcome of the class action lawsuit.

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What happens when the class action lawsuit goes to trial?

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