Mass Tort vs. Class Action: Key Differences

Mass torts and class actions both involve large groups of plaintiffs, but they work very differently.

Class Actions

One or few representatives sue for the entire class. Compensation is often uniform. Members may need to opt out to pursue individual claims.

Mass Torts

Each plaintiff's case is evaluated individually. Settlements often use tiers based on injury severity. Most product liability MDLs are mass torts.

Which Applies to You?

Pharmaceutical, medical device, and toxic exposure claims typically proceed as mass torts within MDL frameworks.