Frequently Asked Questions

From a Plaintiff’s perspective, a class action reduces costs, inconvenience and promotes timeliness in the resolution of many claims. The economies provided by the class action vehicle allows for the prosecution of claims involving smaller amounts in controversy.

A class action economically allows a group of individuals to band together and to contest actions that are directed at a group. By utilizing a class action, plaintiffs’ attorneys can both work on a contingency fee basis while simultaneously investing in the highest possible investigation of the nature of the plaintiffs’ claims. This includes investment in the best experts necessary to prevail on a claim. Further, in many of our cases, we have provided assistance in the formation of neighborhood groups concerned with a specific environmental policy. Such groups acquire political power in that they may include hundreds or even thousands of voters. Such power at the voting booth often equalizes the monetary advantage of a big corporate defendant or the political connections of a governmental defendant. Through this process we have successfully modified the practices of numerous defendants and resolved problems that have in some instances plagued a neighborhood for over 60 years.

To achieve our clients’ objectives we not only file litigation but, where necessary, engage in substantial political and community outreach programs including the following:

• Rent local halls to conduct meetings and to communicate with the plaintiffs.
• Utilize standardized Damage Claim Forms to expedite the process of establishing plaintiffs’ damages.
• Help form or attend meetings by local neighborhood or environmental groups concerned with the issues being litigated.

Where necessary, utilize the political power of the tens of thousands of clients we have represented to counteract political pressure applied by the defendant.

No, we only get paid if we win and the attorney fee is a percentage (typically one-third) of whatever we collect.

Not always and almost never in a claim arising from a sewage backup or flooding.

Yes.