Opting Out of Class Action Lawsuits

• July 1 2024
• |   Class Actions

A class action lawsuit is a legal proceeding where one or more plaintiffs, also known as “class representatives,” file a case on behalf of a larger group, or “class,” of individuals who have similar claims. This collective approach can simplify the litigation process and make it more efficient for courts to handle numerous claims that share a common legal issue.

Class action lawsuits are filed when multiple individuals, rather than a single person, suffer similar harm from the same defendant, in most cases a corporation. For example, imagine a large automotive manufacturer producing and selling a defective vehicle model. The defect causes the brakes to fail unexpectedly, leading to numerous accidents and injuries. Hundreds of affected drivers and passengers could band together to file a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer.

As a plaintiff, when you decide to join a class action lawsuit, you cannot also file an individual claim for the same injury. You must accept the court’s decision and any settlement or judgment reached in the class action. For this reason and more, being part of a class action might not be an advantage for you as it isn’t always in your best interests.

Opting out of a class action lawsuit can sometimes provide a better path to achieving your deserved compensation. If you or a loved one is involved in a class action lawsuit in Nevada and you want to opt out, our attorneys can provide guidance. Reach out to us today at (775) 322-6636 (Reno) and (702) 507-0201 (Las Vegas).

Why hire attorneys from Leverty & Associates Law to help you?

At Leverty & Associates Law, our class action attorneys will provide thorough evaluations to determine if you qualify as a member of a potential class action or if pursuing an individual claim may be more advantageous. If you want to opt out of a class action lawsuit, we will guide you through the process, ensuring all necessary steps are taken correctly and within the specified deadlines.

We understand the impact that legal disputes can have on people, which is why our team provides compassionate support and dedicated advocacy to help guide you through every step of the legal process. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you.

When you opt out of a class action lawsuit, we will maximize your compensation and achieve the best possible outcome.

Reasons why an individual will participate as a member of a class action

Participating in a class action lawsuit is one way to seek compensation when your claim is relatively small and might not justify the cost of pursuing legal action. The following are some reasons why joining a class action might be beneficial:

• Legal action over a small amount of money: When your claim is modest, such as $500, it may not seem worthwhile to go through the legal process alone. However, if a thousand others have the same claim, the combined value becomes $500,000. This joint claim makes the pursuit of damages more feasible and financially sensible.
• Shared costs: By joining a class action, you do not have to bear the full responsibility for litigation costs, including filing fees, attorney fees, and other related expenses. These costs are distributed among all class members, making it more affordable to pursue your claim.
• Strength in numbers: The collective nature of a class action lawsuit provides a stronger case against the defendant. When many individuals report the same issue, it can be more compelling to a jury or judge. This “strength in numbers” can enhance the credibility of the claims and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
• Access to experienced legal representation: Law firms with significant experience and resources typically handle class actions. By participating, you gain access to skilled attorneys who specialize in these types of cases and have the expertise to advocate on your behalf effectively.
• Efficient legal process: Class actions reduce the occurrence of numerous similar claims in a single case, streamlining the legal process. This can lead to a more efficient resolution than handling countless individual lawsuits.
• Potential for greater impact: Beyond personal compensation, participating in a class action can contribute to broader changes. Successful class actions can lead to reforms in business practices, ensuring that the wrongdoing is addressed on a larger scale and potentially preventing future harm to others.

Why you might want to opt out of a class action

The following are reasons people opt out of class actions:

• Potential for higher compensation: Individual lawsuits can sometimes result in higher settlements or awards than you might receive as a member of a class action. In a class action, the settlement or judgment is divided among all class members, which can significantly reduce the amount each person receives.
• Control over the case: By opting out, you retain control over your legal strategy and decisions. In a class action, the lead plaintiffs and their attorneys make decisions that affect the entire class, and you may not agree with their choices or priorities.
• Specific circumstances: Your situation might differ from the general circumstances of the class. If your damages or the impact on you are significantly different, an individual lawsuit might more effectively address your unique circumstances.
• Faster resolution: Class action lawsuits can take years to resolve. If you opt out and pursue an individual claim, you might achieve a resolution more quickly.

You can trust us to prioritize your best interests throughout the legal process.

How to opt out of a class action lawsuit

Opting out of a class action lawsuit involves a few key steps:

• Review the notice: If you are a potential class member, you will receive a notice about the class action. This notice will include important information about the lawsuit, your rights, and the deadline to opt out.
• Submit a written request: To opt out, you must submit a written request to the court or the attorneys handling the case. The notice will provide specific instructions on how to do this. It’s crucial to follow these instructions carefully and ensure your request is submitted before the deadline.
• Consult our attorneys: Before making a decision, it’s advisable to consult with our attorneys, who can help you understand your rights and options. Our lawyers can also assist you with the opt-out process and evaluate whether pursuing an individual claim is in your best interests.

Are you a class action lawsuit member? Do you want to opt out? Let us help you!

At Leverty & Associates Law, we have over fifty years of experience and knowledge about handling class action lawsuits. We will commit our skills and expertise to helping you ensure a favorable outcome. If you need a team of dependable lawyers by your side, we are the ones to call. Contact us at (775) 322-6636 (Reno) and (702) 507-0201 (Las Vegas) for a free initial consultation.