What is the difference between a class action lawsuit and an individual lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit is a legal proceeding in which one or more people sue on behalf of a larger group, or “class,” of people who have been injured by the same action. Class action lawsuits are often used to pursue damages for a group of people who are all affected by the same event or situation. An individual lawsuit, also known as a single-plaintiff lawsuit, is a legal proceeding in which only one person files a lawsuit. This type of lawsuit is often used when someone has been wronged in a way that only affects that individual, such as a breach of contract or a medical malpractice case. The primary difference between a class action lawsuit and an individual lawsuit is that, in a class action, all members of the class are included in the lawsuit and may receive compensation if the lawsuit is successful. In an individual lawsuit, only the individual plaintiff can receive compensation. In West Virginia, class action lawsuits must meet certain criteria to be considered valid. The individual or class must have standing, meaning they have suffered harm due to the action of the defendant, and the class must have a shared interest in recovering damages from the defendant. Furthermore, there must be common issues of law or fact that affect all members of the class. Class action lawsuits can be a more efficient way to seek justice on behalf of a group of people who have been injured by the same action. However, an individual lawsuit may be necessary when only one person has been wronged or if the criteria for a class action lawsuit do not exist.

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What is the difference between a class action lawsuit and an individual lawsuit?

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