How Does Multidistrict Litigation Work?

Product liability cases can become complicated and convoluted quickly, especially when the same defective product injures multiple individuals. In such scenarios, Multidistrict Litigations (MDLs) can streamline the litigation process by centralizing cases involving numerous plaintiffs and defendants who share similar issues. MDLs may be able to prevent inconsistent rulings and save valuable resources.

The court may choose a few representative cases, known as "bellwether cases," to go to trial to provide both sides with valuable insights into how future cases might fare and potentially encourage settlements. If the defendants don’t settle an MDL, they’re typically remanded to their original jurisdiction for individual trials.

Types of Multidistrict Litigations

• Product Liability MDLs: Product liability MDLs involve cases where numerous individuals claim injuries or damages caused by a defective product, such as pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices or consumer goods.

• Environmental MDLs: Environmental MDLs often involve claims against companies responsible for environmental contamination or pollution.

• Antitrust MDLs: Antitrust MDLs relate to antitrust violations, including price-fixing, market manipulation and other anti-competitive practices.

• Securities MDLs: Securities MDLs include alleged securities fraud, insider trading or other violations of securities laws that have impacted numerous plaintiffs.

• Banking and Finance MDLs: Banking and finance MDLs collectively pursue compensation from banks, credit card companies or investment firms.

• Mass Tort MDLs: Mass tort MDLs involve multiple individuals injured or harmed by a common product or event, such as industrial accidents, dangerous drugs or toxic exposure.

• Intellectual Property MDLs: Intellectual property MDLs encompass intellectual property disputes like patent infringement, copyright violations and trademark disputes.

• Employment MDLs: Employment MDLs are consolidated cases concerning workplace discrimination, wage and hour disputes or violations of labor laws.

• Personal Injury MDLs: Personal injury MDLs can include car accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability cases and other large-scale personal injury claims.

• Data Breach and Privacy MDLs: Data breach and privacy MDLs are formed to address incidents stemming from data breaches and privacy violations.

Pros and Cons of Joining an MDL

MDLs offer several advantages, including enhanced efficiency, consistency in rulings and the potential for expert oversight. They may also increase the pressure on defendants to settle, thus saving time and resources for all the plaintiffs involved. However, the perceived loss of personalized attention, reduced control over case strategy and negotiated agreements and potentially delayed resolutions can make individual litigation more appealing to some plaintiffs.

Difference Between Multidistrict Litigations and Class Action Lawsuits

MDLs involve a group of distinct individuals with similar claims. For the sake of efficiency and resource management, plaintiffs work together in pretrial proceedings in federal cases. Class actions are not exclusive to federal courts. A class action is brought by a single party who is representing a group of plaintiffs (as opposed to a group of plaintiffs pooling resources). The “class” in class action refers to the group of plaintiffs. The single party represents the interests of the entire class.

Those in an MDL often feel they have more control over their cases – in fact, these cases typically return to their original jurisdiction to conclude their own trials. MDL plaintiffs must actively choose to join the combined effort. Conversely, individuals in the class are automatically included in the singular lawsuit unless they choose to opt out.

Is It Better to Consolidate Into a Multidistrict Litigation or Pursue Your Case Individually?

If you want a more efficient and consolidated pretrial process with a higher likelihood of reaching a settlement, joining an MDL might be your best course of action. However, if you require a faster resolution or want more control over your case, it might be better to pursue individual litigation. The attorneys at the Buckeye Law Group have years of experience assisting with both MDL and individual cases and can provide strategies and guidance to maximize your compensation.

If You’ve Been Injured by a Defective Product, We’ll Aggressively Pursue Fair Compensation on Your Behalf

The defective product attorneys at the Buckeye Law Group have extensive trial experience and are ready to fight for the rights of Ohio clients harmed by manufacturer negligence.

We provide personalized attention to our clients, strategizing and guiding them through the complicated legal process. Our personal injury attorneys are committed to increasing your chance of securing the best possible claim outcome.

Call 1-800-411-PAIN or explore our defective product page to learn more and schedule a free case consultation with one of our attorneys today.