Guide
Class Action vs Mass Tort: What's the Difference?
How consumer class action settlements differ from mass tort litigation and which type of case you may encounter.
Class actions
A class action groups many similar claims into one lawsuit or settlement. Consumers typically file a simple claim form to receive a share of a fixed settlement fund. Most listings on our directory are class actions.
Mass torts
Mass tort cases often involve serious injury from products like drugs or medical devices. Plaintiffs usually need individual legal representation and medical records. Payouts can be larger but the process is more complex.
What we cover
Class Action Newsletter focuses on court-approved consumer class action settlements with open claim deadlines. Mass tort inquiries may appear in our Investigations section.
Related links
Common questions
- Usually no. Mass torts typically require hiring an attorney and filing an individual lawsuit or joining a multidistrict litigation (MDL) docket.