Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
In the United Kingdom, class action suits, also known as Group Litigation Orders (GLOs), allow multiple parties who have the same, similar or related issues of fact or law in dispute, to join together and sue another party or parties. Manchester, being a significant urban center in the UK, often sees a variety of class action lawsuits, spanning areas such as employment law, product liability, environmental law, financial and banking disputes and more.
Class action suits can involve complex legal issues and often require expert legal knowledge. You may need a lawyer if you have been wronged along with a group of others and are seeking compensation, or if you need to defend your business against a class action lawsuit. Whether you're a potential claimant, a defendant, or a member of a GLO, legal advice can help you understand your rights, navigate the process, and protect your interests.
In the UK, class action suits are governed by Part 19.11 of the Civil Procedure Rules. Unlike some jurisdictions, the UK does not operate an ‘opt-out’ system but an 'opt-in' one, meaning that claimants must actively join the lawsuit. Furthermore, only U.K.-domiciled claimants can join a U.K. class action suit; those outside the U.K must pursue claims individually. Manchester, like the rest of the U.K., follows these regulations. It's particularly relevant to note that the case management and cost issues associated with GLOs can be complex, and costs may be split among claimants in different ways.
The commencement of a class action lawsuit involves the identification of a claim that could potentially be brought by a group, finding a law firm willing to represent the class, and then applying to the Court for a GLO.
Yes, in the U.K. you can withdraw from a class action suit at any time before the litigation is resolved, but you should seek legal advice before doing so, as there may be implications.
In the UK, the 'loser pays' rule generally applies, meaning the losing party will have to pay the legal fees of the winning party. But in the case of class action lawsuits, costs can be split among claimants in varying ways, and damage-based agreements or "no win, no fee" arrangements can also be used.
The kind of damages to be claimed can vary widely, depending on the nature of the lawsuit. They might include compensation for financial loss, physical or psychological harm, or punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
The lead solicitor represents the group of claimants in court, coordinates the actions of the claimants, and communicates with the court and the defendant on behalf of the group. They will be the key contact point for claimants in the proceedings.
For additional insight and resources, you might consider contacting local bar associations or law schools. You may also reach out to the Manchester City Council's legal department for general advice on where to find trusted sources of legal help, or check the UK Government's official website for information on courts, legal procedures and rights.
If you believe you might be involved in a class action situation, the first step is to seek legal advice. Solicitors experienced in class action law will be able to offer guidance based on your specific circumstances. They can help you understand the intricacies of the law, evaluate the strength of your case, and guide you through the process if you decide to proceed.
