A mass tort, as defined by the Wex Legal Dictionary, is "a type of lawsuit that arises when a large number of people suffer injuries as a result of the same product or event." Mass torts can include everything from defective products to environmental disasters.
The process for filing a mass tort lawsuit can be daunting, especially if you are not familiar with the legal system. Here is a step-by-step guide to filing a mass tort lawsuit:
1. Gather information about the incident or product that caused your injuries. This includes information like the date of the incident, the names and contact information for any witnesses, and product or batch numbers if applicable.
2. Contact a personal injury lawyer. Many mass tort lawsuits are handled on a contingency basis, which means that you do not need to pay any legal fees unless your case is successful.
3. File a complaint with the court. This document formally starts your lawsuit and outlines the allegations against the defendant.
4. Serve the complaint on the defendant. This is the process of delivering the complaint to the defendant or their legal representative.
5. Wait for a response from the defendant. The defendant will have a certain amount of time to respond to your allegations, usually 30 to 60 days.
6. Negotiate a settlement with the defendant. If the defendant does not respond or if you are not satisfied with their response, you may choose to negotiate a settlement.
7. Go to trial. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial.
The above is a general overview of the process for filing a mass tort lawsuit. For more specific information, please consult an experienced personal injury lawyer.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney before making any legal decisions.
