Class-Action Lawsuits — A Basic Introduction

As a partner in the firm of Venable LLP, Daniel “Dan” Chammas focuses on defending organizations against labor and employment class-action lawsuits. Daniel Chammas has defeated more than 10 class-action claims, each valued in the millions.

Typically brought by one or a few individuals on behalf of a larger group, the class-action lawsuit allows for the prosecution of claims that might individually be too small to justify litigation. Plaintiffs often bring such suits against large companies who they believe to have wronged the class in a manner common to all members. By consolidating their claims into a larger complaint, individuals are able to pursue compensation in a cost-effective manner.

To be valid, a class-action lawsuit must involve a large number of claimants with legal complaints common to all members. The lawsuit also requires at least one individual with a group-typical claim who is willing to bring the suit on behalf of the class, and who agrees to fairly represent other class members. The verifying of this information occurs during a process known as certification, and it is required before the action can proceed to trial or settlement. At this point, litigation proceeds according to the requirements of the court itself.