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A single class action lawsuit can involve thousands of plaintiffs. However, if each of these plaintiffs were to communicate with the court and the other party or parties, things could quickly get out of hand. It is for this reason that each class action lawsuit is initiated by a class representative. A class representative is a single person who, with the assistance of an experienced South Florida class action attorney, represents the interests of a large group of plaintiffs. In order to qualify as a class representative, an individual must have claims or defenses typical of the claims or defenses of his or her class. In addition, a class representative must be able to fairly and adequately protect the interests of the class. Below is an overview of the duties required of class representatives.

Duties of class representatives

In representing the members of a class in a class action lawsuit, a class representative must perform a number of duties. These duties include:

  • Fairly and adequately represent the class members – A class representative must consider the interests of the class members in a manner similar to his or her own.
  • Participate actively in the lawsuit – A class representative must participate actively in the lawsuit. Active participation may include things such as reading legal documents, testifying at deposition and trial, answering written interrogatories, producing requested legal documents, and keeping up with the status and progress of the lawsuit. Due to the technical nature of many of these tasks, it is advisable to seek the guidance of an experienced South Florida class action attorney prior to initiating a class action lawsuit.
  • Vigorously prosecute the litigation – A class representative must authorize his or her South Florida class action lawyer to do what is necessary to prosecute the case on behalf of the class members.
  • Provide appropriate notice to the class – A class representative is responsible for providing notice of important matters related to litigation to the members of the class. Often, a class representative will authorize his or her attorney to perform this duty.
  • Consider settlement offers – A class representative must consider settlement offers and other resolution options on behalf of the class members. When a settlement offer is made, the class representative and his or her attorney must review its terms and determine whether it is in the best interests of the class members.

South Florida Class Action Attorneys

Class action lawsuits require experienced and aggressive legal representation. At Lehrman Law, we are skilled litigators and experienced trial attorneys who routinely pursue civil lawsuits against powerful individuals, organizations, and big businesses on behalf of people, victims, and small businesses. As part of our class action practice, our South Florida class action attorneys are committed to protecting victims, achieving justice for consumers, protecting privacy, and supporting people who blow the whistle on fraud. If you require legal assistance, we’re ready to put our knowledge and skill to work for you. Please contact us immediately for a free consultation.