Can Moldovan consumers join a group lawsuit over hidden bank fees, and how is compensation split?

Yes, in Moldova it is possible for multiple consumers to pursue a claim together against a bank if they were affected by the same unlawful practice, such as undisclosed monthly fees. However, the system works somewhat differently from the typical “class action” model used in some countries. Under the Moldovan Civil Procedure Code, several claimants whose claims arise from the same facts or legal grounds can join a single lawsuit, which is known as procedural co-participation (a joint claim). Each affected consumer usually needs to actively join the claim and provide consent, meaning it generally works on an “opt-in” basis.

Moldova is also introducing a new legal framework for collective consumer actions through Law No. 80/2025 on Representative Actions for the Protection of the Collective Interests of Consumers, which strengthens the ability of consumer organizations to bring claims on behalf of many consumers. This law allows qualified entities (usually consumer protection organizations or similar bodies) to file claims seeking remedies such as compensation, refunds, price reductions, or termination of contracts when a business practice affects a large group of consumers. In these cases, consumers usually must give written consent to join the claim within a specified time period.

To join such a group claim, the usual steps are: first, affected consumers gather evidence showing that the same bank practice harmed multiple customers, such as bank statements, contracts, and proof of the undisclosed fees. Second, a lawyer or consumer organization prepares the claim and identifies the group of consumers affected. Third, each participant signs a consent or participation form confirming that they want to join the collective claim. After filing the case in court, the claim proceeds under a single case file, usually represented by a lead claimant or an authorized organization.

Regarding costs, they are typically shared among the participants or deducted from the final compensation if the case succeeds. In many situations lawyers may work on a contingency or success-fee arrangement, meaning they receive a percentage of the recovered amount rather than charging large upfront fees. Moldovan law also allows the winning party to recover legal costs from the losing party, so if the consumers win the case the bank may be ordered to pay court expenses and part of the legal fees. Compensation awarded by the court is usually distributed among the participants based on their individual losses or according to a court-approved distribution plan.

In practical terms, if many customers were charged the same undisclosed monthly fee, organizing a joint claim can be more efficient than filing individual cases because it reduces legal costs and strengthens the case by demonstrating a pattern of conduct by the bank.