Three-Minute Legal Talks: How Class Action Lawsuits Work

Class action lawsuits are a powerful tool in the American judicial system, enabling a large group of individuals to collectively sue an adverse party in a lawsuit. With origins dating back to the early 19th century in West v. Randall, almost two dozen other countries have since followed the United States’ lead and adopted class action lawsuits in one form or another. This unique form of litigation offers benefits to both parties involved — as well as to the court system — but also comes with its share of difficulties.

In three minutes, Jeff Feldman, professor from practice at the University of Washington School of Law, explains why class action lawsuits can be effective, the requirements for bringing one before the court, the types of cases that are best suited for them, and the advantages and disadvantages involved.