What Are Mass Torts & Class Actions?
Mass torts and class action lawsuits allow large groups of people who have been harmed by the same product, drug, or corporate conduct to seek justice collectively. While often used interchangeably, these legal actions have important differences:
- Mass Tort: Each plaintiff files an individual lawsuit, but the cases are consolidated for efficiency. Each person's injuries and damages are evaluated separately, which often results in higher individual compensation.
- Class Action: A single lawsuit is filed on behalf of an entire group (the "class"). One or more representative plaintiffs stand in for the group, and any settlement or verdict is divided among all class members.
Both types of litigation are powerful tools for holding corporations accountable when their products or actions cause widespread harm. At Roden Law, our attorneys have the experience and resources to take on large corporations and fight for the compensation our clients deserve.
How Class Action Lawsuits Work
Mass tort and class action cases typically follow a structured legal process. Here is what you can expect when you pursue a claim:
Investigation & Case Review
Our attorneys investigate the facts of your case, review medical records, and determine whether you have a viable claim. We identify the responsible parties and gather evidence of their negligence or wrongdoing.
Filing the Lawsuit
Once we establish the merits of your case, we file the lawsuit on your behalf. In mass tort cases, your individual claim is filed alongside others; in class actions, representative plaintiffs are selected to lead the litigation.
Discovery & Litigation
During discovery, both sides exchange evidence, depose witnesses, and retain expert consultants. This phase can reveal critical internal documents showing what corporations knew about the dangers of their products.
Resolution
Cases may be resolved through a negotiated settlement, a bellwether trial verdict, or a global settlement fund. Our attorneys fight to maximize your compensation and will not settle for less than you deserve.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover
Economic Damages
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages or income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Cost of rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Assistive medical equipment
- Cost of long-term or lifelong care
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to injury
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
- Loss of companionship (spouse/family)
- Disability and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Diminished quality of life
Compensation amounts vary by case type and individual circumstances. Mass tort claims are evaluated individually, which often allows for higher recovery than class action settlements.
Frequently Asked Questions
In a class action, one lawsuit is filed on behalf of an entire group, and any settlement is divided among all class members. In a mass tort, each plaintiff files their own individual claim, but the cases are consolidated for pretrial proceedings. Mass torts typically result in higher individual compensation because each person's unique injuries and damages are evaluated separately.
There is no upfront cost. Roden Law handles mass tort and class action cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We cover all investigation, filing, and litigation costs, and our fees are a percentage of your recovery.
These cases can take anywhere from one to several years depending on the complexity of the litigation, the number of plaintiffs, and whether the case goes to trial or settles. Our attorneys keep clients informed throughout the process and work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible.
If you have been harmed by a dangerous drug, defective product, toxic chemical, or other corporate negligence, you may qualify. Contact us for a free, no-obligation case review. Our attorneys will evaluate your situation, review your medical records, and determine whether you have a viable claim.
Potentially, yes. Eligibility depends on the specific lawsuit and the criteria established for participation. Even if your injuries seem minor, they may still qualify for compensation. The best way to find out is to contact our attorneys for a free evaluation of your specific circumstances.
Contact Our Class Action Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a dangerous product, drug, or toxic substance, contact us for a free, no-obligation case review. Our mass tort attorneys have the resources and experience to take on large corporations and fight for the compensation you deserve — at no upfront cost.