How Long Does a Class Action Lawsuit Take?
Class action lawsuits typically take two to three years to resolve, although some cases are settled in much less time. Ultimately, there is no set duration for class action lawsuits, as various factors can affect each case’s timeline. If you are considering joining or filing a class action, Class Action U can help by connecting you with an experienced attorney.
Why Do Class Action Lawsuits Vary in Duration?
No two class action lawsuits are exactly alike. Each involves different legal issues, parties, evidence, and potential for delays. Understanding the factors that influence how long it takes to reach a settlement or verdict can help you set realistic expectations for your case.
Complexity
The investigative phase is often the most time-consuming part of a class action lawsuit. When a potential lead plaintiff approaches an attorney to start a class action, the attorney must assess whether there is enough evidence to support the claim.
After filing the lawsuit, the discovery process begins, and opposing parties gather and exchange evidence to support their arguments. The more complex issues of liability, causation, and damages are in a case, the longer this process may take. It can take several years to compile all the evidence in some cases.
Size
The size of a class action, both in terms of the number of plaintiffs and the quantity of evidence, can lengthen the case’s timeline. For example, having a large pharmaceutical company as a defendant can lead to thousands or even millions of class members, all of whom must receive notice of the lawsuit. Likewise, the more evidence (e.g., data and witness statements) there is to sift through, the longer the discovery process will take.
Appeals
After the court reaches a verdict, either party may appeal the decision, which involves a higher court reviewing and potentially overturning the lower court’s decision. Multiple appeals are possible and can add considerable time to a case’s total duration.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Payout From a Class Action Lawsuit?
Receiving a class action payout is the final step in the process. Though class actions are theoretically designed for efficiency, plaintiffs do not always receive their compensation quickly. Class members must show that they are entitled to compensation. It can take months after reaching a settlement or verdict to complete this process, especially if there is a large number of class members or complex distribution calculations.
What You Can Do While You Wait for Your Settlement
Waiting for a class action payout can be frustrating, but there are a few things you can do to stay informed and keep things moving forward:
- If you believe you are an eligible class member, keep an eye out for class action notices.
- Complete and submit any required paperwork promptly.
- If you are a lead plaintiff, stay in contact with your attorney for updates on the case.
- If you are another class member, check relevant online databases for case updates.
Should I Start or Join a Class Action?
Joining a class action lawsuit is a personal decision. While there may be a long wait, you may receive a sizable payout and find it rewarding to help hold the defendant accountable for the harm they caused. Ultimately, you may even help prevent future harm to others.
If you’re considering starting or joining a class action lawsuit, Class Action U can connect you with an experienced attorney. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. We are here to help you understand and exercise your legal rights and options.
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