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Class Actions

Wagstaff & Cartmell, L.L.P. has demonstrated results in consumer and class action litigation. We have extensive experience representing plaintiffs and defendants in class action matters in Kansas City, regionally, and nationwide. Class action claims can arise in a variety of different settings, but often involve product liability, unfair business practices, securities, antitrust, and consumer protection claims.

What is a Class Action?

When a group of individuals or entities believe they have each been wronged in the same way by the same entity, they can form into a "class," combining their individual claims into one lawsuit. At least one member of the class must serve as the class representative. Class action lawsuits filed in federal court are governed by Rule 23 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.

Who Can Form a "Class" and File a Class Action Lawsuit?

In theory, nearly any group of individuals can form a class - provided that they all suffered negative effects from a particular act or policy carried out by the same person or entity. However, most class action lawsuits are filed on behalf of groups composed of:

• Consumers who purchased defective products, or were harmed by unfair business practices such as false advertising or unfair billing.
• Individuals and Business Owners who paid artificially high prices as the result of price-fixing or unfair trade practices.
• Employees of large businesses who file employment lawsuits involving wage and hour disputes, unpaid overtime, inadequate compensation, or break time and meals, or if they suspect widespread illegal discrimination.
• Borrowers who have been targeted and victimized by unscrupulous or even predatory lending practices.
• Shareholders who have watched their investments drop dramatically in value as the result of unfair, manipulative trading practices or incompetence, breaches of fiduciary duty and fraud.

We handle complex, high-stakes class action lawsuits involving major national and multi-national corporations with a high degree of efficiency and effectiveness. To schedule an appointment, call 816-701-1100 or contact our firm online today.