What is the difference between a class action lawsuit and a citizens’ suit?

A class action lawsuit is a legal action in which a large number of people who have suffered from the same injury or wrongdoings are represented by one or a few individuals who are the plaintiffs. By bringing the lawsuit as a group, all of the members are able to join together and seek legal remedies. The plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit may receive monetary compensation or some form of relief. A citizens’ suit is a legal action brought by a citizen, or group of citizens, against the government. This type of lawsuit is often used to challenge a government action or policy, and to enforce a right or duty of the government. Unlike a class action lawsuit, a citizens’ suit is not seeking monetary compensation, but instead seeks to have the government act in a certain way. Overall, while both types of suits are brought to court to challenge a wrongdoer, there are distinct differences between a class action lawsuit and a citizens’ suit. A class action suit involves a group of people all suffering from the same injury or wrongdoings who come together to seek damages or some form of relief, whereas a citizens’ suit is a legal action brought by a citizen(s) to challenge or enforce a governmental action or policy.

Related FAQs

What types of defenses are available in class action lawsuits?
What are the risks of filing a class action lawsuit?
Do class action lawsuits require pre-certification procedures?
Can multiple class actions be combined?
How do class action settlements compare to other types of settlements?
What type of discovery is available in a class action lawsuit?
What is the difference between class action and single plaintiffs lawsuits?
What happens after a class action lawsuit is settled?
What is a class action waiver?
Can individual class members opt out of a class action settlement?

What is the difference between a class action lawsuit and a citizens’ suit?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts