What is the difference between a settlement class and a damages class?

The primary difference between a settlement class and a damages class in Washington is the purpose of the class action lawsuit. In a settlement class, the parties involved in the class action lawsuit agree to a settlement without a trial. This means they will agree to certain terms that are acceptable to both sides and end the lawsuit. In a damages class, the parties involved will go through a trial and the court will decide a damages amount that the defendant must pay to the plaintiffs. A settlement class action is often used when a defendant is willing to pay a certain sum to settle a dispute without a trial. This can be beneficial to both parties, as it can avoid the cost and time associated with a trial. Damages class actions, on the other hand, occur when a defendant is unwilling to settle and a jury is required to decide liability and award damages for the class. This can be beneficial to the plaintiffs, as it gives them an opportunity to receive more damages than they would have received through a settlement. In Washington, both types of class action suits can be filed in state and federal court. However, federal court is often preferred, as class actions are handled differently in federal court. Federal courts also have broader jurisdiction, giving plaintiffs more options when filing a class action suit. Overall, when filing a class action lawsuit in Washington, it is important to understand the differences between a settlement class and a damages class. Each one is appropriate in different circumstances, and understanding the pros and cons of each can help ensure the right course of action is taken in a particular situation.

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What is the difference between a settlement class and a damages class?

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