Class Action Fundamentals (Federal)

Summary

This practice note discusses the requirements to bring a class action in federal court and covers topics such as the distinction between Article III standing and Rule 23(a), other actions similar to a class action, advantages and disadvantages of a class action, and the four core requirements of Rule 23(a) to certify and maintain a class action. This practice note does not discuss jurisdiction, and limitations on jurisdiction, arising in actions under the Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA). For a discussion of those topics, see The Wagstaffe Group Practice Guide: Federal Civil Procedure Before Trial, §§ 7-IV[B][3]-[5].