When a large group of people feels wronged by the same company, person or entity, they may become part of a class action lawsuit in West Virginia. This type of case is different than a typical one in that there are multiple plaintiffs represented by one main plaintiff. According to How Stuff Works, to be a class action suit, it must involve people from different states and have a claim that is more than $5 million.
To start this type of case, it first must have a judge certify it. The judge will determine if there is a case and then define who may be a part of it. For example, the judge may say the plaintiffs may be that anyone who bought the product in question from the defendant between two dates.
After this, notification is sent to everyone who may qualify to be part of the class action. The notification gives you the option to opt in or opt out. If you opt in, you agree to the decision made and give up your right to sue later.
The judge also verifies the attorneys for the plaintiffs. He or she makes sure the attorney or attorneys have experience in class actions and the particular subject of the case.
The court hears the case as it would in any other type of trial. If the judge rules in favor of the plaintiffs, he or she sets the rules for distribution of the damages won. This information is for education and is not legal advice.
