Filter by

star star star star star
10 Sep, 2024 by River witch
Michelle Fze Chong So is an extraordinary lawyer who embodies the passion and tenacity often portrayed in movies and TV shows. Her commitment to delivering justice is inspiring and remarkable, reflecting the true spirit of a legal champion. Her unwavering support and expertise were nothing short of amazing. Winning a case others claimed was hopeless showcased her exceptional skills and immensely impacted our lives. We are profoundly grateful for her ability to turn the tide in our favor when all seemed lost.  She not only our saved our butts, but she also saved us tens of thousands of dollars.  She is a true warrior with superpower legal skills.  Her legal expertise was vital to securing our future.  Her dedication and hard work have made all the difference in our lives. We are forever appreciative and profoundly grateful for all her effort and hard work.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2024 by Ken leffler
Kelley Duggan was disciplined by the Washington state bar for ETHICS violation, very incompetent attorney
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by X x
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Mike
I hired Mr. Cochran years ago, when he was with another law firm, and he did an outstanding job, winning us both a substantial amount of money. Fast forward 18 years, and I'm once again in need of a good attorney, for a job related injury. So, i look up Mr. Cochran, and reach out to his law firm. After several emails with his assistant, a phone consultation is arranged. During the conversation he says that he's not sure if he can represent me, and is also unsure if I can sue my employer, or if I'll have to sue workers comp. He tells me that he will look into it, and if he's unable to represent me, he'll talk to some buddies in Idaho (where I'm at), and recommend someone to me. After 3+ months of writing emails back and forth with his assistant, and never getting any answers, I've decided to move on, and find another attorney. I have no doubt, that Mr. Cochran is a brilliant attorney, i just wonder about his character
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Mar, 2023 by Robert northup
i’m not sure exactly why Darrell is at four stars on this rating ,when he should be at five and preferably 10 ,Mr. Cochran visited me when I was in a state penitentiary ,and with his own time and resources he battled insurance companies and the state Attorney General’s office , who with unlimited resources at their disposal re fused to admit liability in my case or accept any culpibility, Darrell steadfastly protected my interests when at the time I was indigent and had no resources to fight these huge entities that were violating my civil rights and liberties ..Mr. Cochran has throughout his entire career made it a staple to his itinerary to fight for people who cannot afford to fight for themselves against entities and corporations with unlimited resources who utilize their power and influence to violate the civil liberties of others ..Darrell Cochran embodies every attribute that I wish every attorney in the state or in the country had for their professionalism ,,,put it quite simply the best Atty I’ve ever seen in my life, and that’s a fact
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Mar, 2014 by Andrew
Darrell is a great attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is in need of assistance with large companies or auto accidents. I have talked to Darrell for a little over a year, sometimes on a daily basis. He is very knowledgeable of the law and puts his clients rights first. No matter the size of the fight he is always willing to stay up late with clients and make sure they are takin care of.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2014 by Dan
This is Dan Donlan responding to the prior review from "Peter" stating that I charged him and did not do anything. I have been trying to figure out who would have written this review, but the statements do not match any of my clients. The review indicates that the client hired me less than a month ago and that I have sent him two statement thus far. That is not the way I bill and I do not have any clients that have complained to me about my services or billing practices since I opened my firm three years ago. If this truly was written by a client who has issues with how I treated them, please contact me so that I can make things right.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2014 by Peter
I would newer hire this attorney . He didnt help me at all and charge me in full then send me another statement for doing nothing . Have no expirience at all .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Trustworthy beyond what I can articulate, knowledgeable, and experienced as well as comfortable to work with. This is someone I can work with well, and laugh with in the face of adversity, but who is capable of unwinding the most intricate fiasco and sorting out facts. Well versed, informed, and beyond capable. With thanks!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Feb, 2014 by Robert locke
This attorney has a very promising and "Hope Raising" website. He touts that he "Fights for the Little Guy". I am disabled in my 50's, can't afford my prescribed medications and the State of Washington has RAPED my Constitutional rights. His office said they are unable to help me at this time. He had a movie made about him regarding the 99' WTO protests and the false arrests I guess if your not worth of a movie deal you are not worthy of his representation!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Oct, 2010 by Diem
Mike represented me in a case that was extremely contentious and long drawn. From the moment he came on board, he alleviated my concerns at having to deal with the opposing counsels' tactics. Mike's dedication to his clients is unsurpassed in more ways that I can articulate. He is tenacious in his representation of his clients, he is protective of his clients' interests, and he is committed and skillful in getting the best results for them. In short, Mike's experience coupled with his integrity and compassion that few others can compete with are just a few reasons why I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mike.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time. She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up. Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home. Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant. Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home: In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service). Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time. She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up. Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home. Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant. Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home: In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service). Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time. She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up. Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home. Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant. Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home: In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service). Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time. She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up. Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home. Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant. Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home: In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service). Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time. She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up. Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home. Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant. Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home: In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service). Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Class Action Lawyer Can Do for You

A class action lawyer specializes in representing groups of individuals who have suffered similar harm or injury due to the actions of a company, organization, or government entity. These lawyers file lawsuits on behalf of a large group (the "class") of individuals, seeking compensation or relief for damages caused by things like defective products, environmental harm, consumer fraud, or employment violations. Class action lawyers are skilled in managing complex legal processes that involve numerous plaintiffs and large-scale legal claims.

If you’ve been harmed by a product, service, or corporate action that also affected many others, a class action lawyer can help you join or initiate a collective lawsuit to seek justice and compensation.

When Should I Hire a Class Action Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a class action lawyer if you and a group of people have experienced harm or damages under similar circumstances. Common scenarios include:

  • Defective products: If a product you purchased caused injury, illness, or other harm due to a defect, a class action lawyer can help you join a lawsuit against the manufacturer or retailer.
  • Consumer fraud: If a company has misled consumers through false advertising, deceptive business practices, or scams, a class action lawsuit can be filed to seek compensation on behalf of all affected customers.
  • Employment violations: If your employer has violated labor laws - such as failing to pay overtime, denying benefits, or enforcing discriminatory policies - a class action lawyer can represent a group of employees seeking justice.
  • Data breaches: If a company’s negligence led to a data breach that compromised your personal information, you may be able to join a class action lawsuit seeking compensation for the breach.
  • Environmental damage: If you or your community has been harmed by environmental hazards, such as pollution or toxic waste, a class action lawyer can file a collective lawsuit against the responsible party.
  • Unfair financial practices: If a bank, lender, or credit card company engaged in fraudulent or illegal financial practices, a class action lawyer can help a group of consumers recover losses.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process helps ensure that you meet legal deadlines and that your case is properly prepared for a potential class action lawsuit.

What Does a Class Action Lawyer Do?

A class action lawyer provides a range of legal services to represent large groups of individuals in lawsuits. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Investigating the claim: The lawyer investigates the facts of the case, including gathering evidence of harm, identifying potential plaintiffs, and determining whether a class action lawsuit is the best course of action.
  • Filing the lawsuit: The lawyer files the class action lawsuit on behalf of the named plaintiffs (the representative plaintiffs) and others who have experienced similar harm.
  • Class certification: One of the first steps in a class action is getting the court to certify the case as a class action. The lawyer will argue that the case meets the legal requirements for certification, such as the number of plaintiffs and commonality of harm.
  • Communicating with plaintiffs: Class action lawyers keep plaintiffs informed throughout the process, including notifying potential class members about the lawsuit and giving them the opportunity to join the case.
  • Negotiating settlements: Many class action lawsuits are resolved through settlements before going to trial. The lawyer will negotiate with the defendant to reach a settlement that compensates the class for their losses.
  • Representing the class in court: If the case goes to trial, the lawyer will represent the entire class, presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and arguing for the plaintiffs.
  • Managing claims distribution: Once a settlement or verdict is reached, the lawyer helps manage the process of distributing compensation to class members, ensuring that all eligible plaintiffs receive their share of the award.

How Are Class Action Lawyers Paid?

Class action lawyers are typically paid on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if the class action lawsuit is successful. Here’s how their payment structure generally works:

  • Contingency fee: Class action lawyers usually take a percentage of the settlement or judgment as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 25% to 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of work involved.
  • No upfront fees: You generally won’t have to pay any fees upfront. The lawyer covers the costs of the lawsuit, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs, and is reimbursed from the settlement or award.
  • Court approval of fees: In class action cases, the court must approve the lawyer’s fee to ensure that it is reasonable. This helps protect class members from paying excessive legal fees.

Always discuss fee arrangements with your lawyer at the outset to understand how much they will be paid if the lawsuit is successful.

How Much Does a Class Action Lawyer Cost?

Class action lawyers generally work on contingency, meaning they don’t get paid unless the lawsuit is successful. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

  • Contingency fee: Class action lawyers typically charge between 25% and 40% of the settlement or judgment. For example, if the lawsuit settles for $10 million and the lawyer’s fee is 30%, the lawyer would receive $3 million, and the remaining $7 million would be distributed to the class members.
  • Court costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer will deduct the costs associated with the lawsuit, such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation costs. These costs are usually reimbursed from the settlement or award.
  • No cost if the case is lost: If the class action lawsuit is unsuccessful, you typically won’t owe any legal fees or costs. The lawyer assumes the financial risk of the case.

It’s important to discuss potential costs and fee structures with your lawyer before the case proceeds to ensure transparency and avoid any surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Class Action Lawyer

Before hiring a class action lawyer, you should ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and skills needed to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with class action lawsuits?
    Ensure the lawyer has a successful track record of handling class action cases, particularly in the area of law relevant to your case (e.g., consumer fraud, employment, defective products).
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Confirm that the lawyer charges a contingency fee, and ask for a detailed explanation of what percentage they charge and how expenses will be handled.
  3. What are the chances of success in my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of your case and the likelihood of certification as a class action.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Class action lawsuits can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the case to last, from certification to settlement or trial.
  5. Will I need to appear in court?
    Ask if your participation will be required in court or whether the lawyer will handle most aspects of the case on behalf of the class.
  6. What is the expected settlement or recovery?
    Ask about potential outcomes, including the expected settlement or damages, and how compensation will be distributed among class members.
  7. What happens if the case is lost?
    Confirm that you won’t owe any legal fees or expenses if the case is unsuccessful.

How to Check the Credibility of a Class Action Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable class action lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for class action experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in class action cases and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in class action lawsuits.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in class action cases.
  • Check for certifications or memberships: Membership in organizations like the American Association for Justice (AAJ) or specific class action sections can indicate the lawyer’s expertise in handling large-scale litigation.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a class action lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant information and documents. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Details of the harm you’ve experienced: Provide a clear explanation of the harm or damages you’ve suffered, whether it’s a defective product, financial loss, or harm due to employment violations.
  • Evidence of the issue: Bring any documents, emails, receipts, contracts, or photos that support your claim. If others have experienced the same harm, gather their testimonies or contact information if possible.
  • Information about the responsible party: If you know which company, organization, or government entity is responsible, bring any information you have about them, including names, addresses, or prior legal actions.
  • Questions about the process: Prepare a list of questions about the class action process, your potential role in the lawsuit, and what you can expect in terms of outcomes and timelines.
  • Contact information for other potential class members (if available): If you know others who have been similarly affected, provide their contact information so the lawyer can assess whether they may join the class action.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer evaluate your case effectively and provide the best legal guidance for pursuing a class action lawsuit.

Scroll to top