Los Angeles Class Action Law Firm

What is a Los Angeles Class Action?

A class action is a type of lawsuit where one attorney or a small group of attorneys represent an entire class of people.  Courts permit class actions in several types of litigation because when many people are similarly wronged, it is sometimes easier and more efficient for them (but perhaps not better for you) to combine all of the cases against the same defendant(s) in the same action.  For this reason, the company being sued often settles for a sum that, when divided among the class action members, amounts to much less than what the class members would receive if they were compensated individually. 

Complex state and federal laws govern class action lawsuits.  Efforts to reform class actions at both the state and federal level mean the laws are changing frequently and becoming even more confusing.  Therefore, it is critical that you consult with an experienced class action attorney if you receive notification that you may be a member of a class action. 

Wage and Hour Class Actions

State and federal labor laws strictly govern the treatment of employees regarding overtime, vacation benefits, bonuses, commissions, and adequate breaks and meal times.  California's labor code is among the strictest in the United States, and in California it is easy for wage and hour cases to be certified as class actions.  However, just because there is a wage and hour class action pending against your employer does not mean you must participate in it if you believe your wage and hour rights are being violated.

Opt-Out

Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23 and California Rule of Court 3.766, members of most class action lawsuits must be given the opportunity to exclude themselves, or opt out, of the lawsuit if they would rather obtain their own legal counsel and seek their own remedies.  However, studies show that class members opt out in less than 1% of all class actions.  This suggests that many class members are unaware of their legal rights and may unintentionally be agreeing to accept an amount much lower than what they deserve without having their voices heard.

Seek Experienced Legal Counsel in Los Angeles

If you are a Los Angeles County resident and have received a notification that you are a member of a wage and hour class action lawsuit, it is important that you seek advice from an experienced attorney who can inform you of your rights and make sure your individual voice is heard.  Contact the Los Angeles class action law firm of Robert R. Ronne by filling out our email form for a case review.