What is the difference between a direct action lawsuit and a class action lawsuit?

A direct action lawsuit is a lawsuit where an individual person, often referred to as a plaintiff, files a claim against a company or person. The individual plaintiff is seeking a specific resolution or reparation for the damages suffered due to the wrongdoings of the defendant. On the other hand, a class action lawsuit is a type of legal action where a group of people, referred to as a “class”, sues a corporation, government entity, or an individual on behalf of all members of the group. The members of the class, or “class representatives”, will represent all of the people who were wronged by the defendant. The outcomes of class action lawsuits can vary from reparations to a change in policy. In Hawaii, class action lawsuits are governed by the Hawaii Class Action Procedures Rule. This rule strictly outlines the procedures for class action lawsuits in the state and details the steps that must be taken when an individual is looking to initiate a class action lawsuit. It is important to note that the plaintiffs involved in the case must have claims that arise out of the same set of facts or circumstances in order for a case to be viable. Additionally, the individuals must have suffered an injury that is either the same or very similar to the other individuals involved in the case.

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What is the difference between a direct action lawsuit and a class action lawsuit?

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