What are "class actions" in civil litigation?

Class actions in civil litigation refer to lawsuits filed by one or more plaintiffs on behalf of a larger group of individuals who share similar legal claims. This type of lawsuit consolidates numerous individual claims into a single action, allowing for a more efficient resolution and ensuring that those with similar grievances can seek justice collectively. The core principle is that class actions are advantageous when numerous individuals have suffered similar harm from a common source, such as a corporation or organization.

By proceeding as a class action, the plaintiffs can share legal costs, and it allows the court to address common issues of fact and law, making the litigation process more streamlined. Class actions also help to level the playing field, as individual plaintiffs might not have the resources to pursue their claims in isolation against larger defendants.

This structure is not applicable to individual lawsuits, out-of-court settlements, or claims filed specifically in small claims court, which address different legal circumstances and procedures.