Class ActionOnce enough people have gained by these suits, they will go away. We're not even at stage 2 yet. Load up when you feel like loading up because you will be telling your friends about the big one that got away like I did with SHOP if you don't. This too will pass.
1) A lawyer files a class action lawsuit on behalf of one or more parties;
2) A judge agrees that the case should proceed as a class action and certifies it;
3) Once certified, the judge directs notice be given to all parties having a similar claim during a defined time period so they may be informed and have input on the case. This first notice gives people an opportunity to "opt out" (not be part of the class or represented by the party who brought the case). Those who opt out have no further standing in the case and can either drop the matter or bring an action on their own behalf. Individuals that remain a party in the case are bound by the judgment or settlement and prohibited from taking any further action.
4) The case could potentially proceed for years. It is either settled out of court and presented for approval as to fairness (most often the case), or the case is tried and the judge renders a decision. If the lead plaintiff and the class members win a judgment over the company being sued, there is another publication notifying people about how they can collect their damages or take advantage of any other
remedies.