Posted on:Jun 01, 2020

What Does It Mean If My Case Is Being Transferred to an MDL?

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Complex cases involving product liability, or circumstances that involve a significant number of victims may be best suited for multidistrict litigation. While learning that your case may be transferred to multidistrict litigation might give you pause, the process may be a way of preserving your resources and assisting you in reaching a favorable outcome sooner. As an accident victim, it comes as no surprise that you will be wondering how best to manage your case. The following are common questions you may have regarding multidistrict litigation. 

What is multidistrict litigation?

The purpose of multidistrict litigation is to assist in expediting cases that might involve several people. Some of the time, this could impact plaintiffs who are in the hundreds or even thousands. When there are many possible victims, making claims across the country, consolidating them into one case can save time and preserve resources for cases involving similar allegations. Additionally, combining cases into one forum can not only assist in a faster process but also save money. This is often done for incredibly complex cases and may be more straightforward than managing each case individually. 

What is the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation?

Hearing similar cases across the country can be a strain on resources, especially when hundreds of individual cases are heard over the same manner. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation provides a special panel within the court system to assist in expediting such cases and reach a resolution promptly. 

Why would my case be transferred to multidistrict litigation?

There are a few different ways that a case might be transferred to multidistrict litigation. The panel of MDL might initiate the transfer, or your lawyer might file a motion to transfer a case to multidistrict litigation. A panel will then convene to hear evidence presented by parties to determine the best way to move forward. 

Who requests a case to be transferred?

This process is typically driven by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation which involves different judges from different jurisdictions. These judges determine whether a group of cases are eligible for MDL cases and where to send them. 

What types of cases become multidistrict litigation?

Several issues might warrant multidistrict litigation, including:

  • Prescription Drugs
  • Defective Products
  • Securities Fraud
  • Airplane Crashes
  • Employment Practices
  • Securities Fraud

Are multidistrict litigation and class action lawsuits the same thing? What are the differences?

While multidistrict litigation and class action lawsuits may be the same, they are different legal situations. While both are a way of expedited cases for multiple plaintiffs, the process for each has many differences. The range of plaintiffs can vary from a handful of people to hundreds or even thousands. Typically class action lawsuits are managed by a lawyer or group of lawyers who support plaintiffs as representatives of their case. They work to take legal action by filing a complaint and requesting certification by the court. A panel of judges oversees MDL cases. Following this, a judge is typically assigned to see the process through proceedings. In some cases, a settlement might occur during the pretrial phases of the process. Be aware that some plaintiffs might accept settlements in some cases, and others might proceed to trial.  

Managing MDL cases can be a complicated process. You will still need to retain an attorney to represent you with your case. To learn more or if you are asking yourself what does it mean if my case is being transferred to an MDL? contact an experienced multidistrict litigation attorney for the support that you deserve. Call the Saavedra Law Firm today.

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