What is a "class action" lawsuit?

A "class action" lawsuit is a legal action filed on behalf of a larger group of individuals who share common claims or injuries. This type of lawsuit allows multiple plaintiffs to come together to litigate issues collectively, which can be more efficient and effective than having each individual file separate lawsuits. Class actions are often used in cases where the damages suffered by each individual might be small, but collectively, they represent a significant legal claim against a defendant, such as in consumer fraud cases, discrimination cases, or antitrust violations.

In a class action, one or more representatives bring the case forward, and if the court certifies the class, it allows other similarly situated individuals to join the lawsuit, thus streamlining the judicial process and making it easier for individuals to seek justice when facing large entities like corporations. This structure is particularly beneficial as it balances the scales against defendants who may have more resources and significantly enhances access to legal recourse for the affected parties.