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What Does a Class Action Attorney Do?

A class action attorney represents a large group of people acting as one entity either in a lawsuit or in settlement negotiations. A main part of your attorney's job is to prove that you are, in fact, a single group that deserves to be treated as one entity.

How Do I Know If I Need a Class Action Attorney?

Most commonly, class action attorneys represent cases like:
  • Discrimination
  • Employees against a company they work for
  • Product liability
  • Environmental issues
  • Corporate fraud
  • Defective medical practices
If you think you may have a case, a class action attorney can give guidance about whether the case will be successful and which steps to take next.

How Much Does a Class Action Attorney Cost?

Typically, class action attorneys earn their income by charging on a contingency basis. A contingency fee means that you will not have to pay anything up front but your lawyer will take a percentage if you win your case. If you don't win, your lawyer won't receive any payment. The exact percentage taken varies between attorneys but is often around 25%. Establish a rate up front so that you know what to expect.

What Should I Expect When Working with a Class Action Attorney?

Class action suits are often asking for large amounts of money since it will be split between so many people. They are often also against large organizations with their own team of lawyers, so in order to win, you need to have a strong case. If you do win, the sum of money you may get will depend on how much you're asking for and how many people are involved. If you don't win and your lawyer charges on a contingency basis, you won't lose anything but your time.

A class action lawsuit is a complicated matter. An experienced attorney will create much better chances of winning, and receiving a larger settlement.

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.


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