A class action lawsuit is a legal mechanism that allows a group of individuals who have suffered similar harm to be represented by one plaintiff in a single lawsuit, instead of bringing multiple separate lawsuits. This legal procedure is often used when a large number of people have been affected by the same wrongdoing, such as bait-and-switch advertising, abusive robocalls, and other deceptive and unfair business practices. Class actions can provide a more efficient way to address the legal issues of a large group of people by allowing individuals to get results collectively.

Some of the key advantages of class action lawsuits include:

1. Access to Justice: Class actions allow individuals with relatively small claims to seek redress and legal remedies collectively. In many class actions, parties may reach a settlement that benefits class members without the need for a lengthy and costly trial.

2. Accountability: Class actions can hold corporations, institutions, or government entities accountable for widespread misconduct. The potential for facing a large class action lawsuit with significant financial consequences can encourage entities to comply with the law and engage in ethical behavior.

3. Efficiency and Consistency: Class actions consolidate multiple similar claims into a single lawsuit. This streamlines the legal process, reduces duplication of efforts, and promotes consistent legal standard. It is a more efficient way to handle a large number of similar cases.

4. Expertise: Class action lawsuits are typically handled by experienced attorneys who specialize in complex litigation. These attorneys have the expertise and resources to effectively pursue claims against powerful defendants.

In many class action lawsuits, lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they are only paid if they are successful in recovering compensation for the class members. The fee is typically calculated as a percentage of the total amount recovered in the lawsuit, whether through a settlement or judgment. Common percentages range from 20% to 40% of the recovery, but the exact percentage can vary. In some class actions, especially those involving consumer protection rights, the defendant may be required to pay the attorneys' fees in addition to providing relief to the class members. This is known as "fee shifting," and it means that the defendant is responsible for covering the legal fees and costs of the class counsel.

The time frame for class action lawsuits can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of class members, the nature of the claims, the legal procedures involved, and whether the case goes to trial or is settled.

Starting a class action lawsuit against a company is a complex legal process that typically requires the assistance of an experienced attorney.

When a class action lawsuit settles, it means that the parties involved have reached an agreement to resolve the claims without going to trial. The settlement is a legally binding agreement that outlines the terms, conditions, and remedies to be provided to the class members. Once the parties reach an agreement, the proposed settlement is submitted to the court for approval. The court reviews the settlement to ensure it is fair, reasonable, and in the best interests of the class members. The court will approve the settlement once before notice is sent to class members, and then finally after the notice program is complete. The entire process typically takes several months.