Attorneys Guiding You Through Mass Tort Litigation
Mass tort law suits are a type of litigation that involves people from across multiple states, often from across the nation, who have suffered harm from the same product or practice. Rather than trying cases in multiple courtrooms in different states, the court consolidates cases into a single jurisdiction. The court typically tries one or more cases depending on the injury or injuries involved and the outcomes of these initial cases are used as benchmarks for future settlements.
These cases require extensive legal knowledge and resources to navigate the complex legal landscape successfully. With so many people seeking justice for their harm, having skilled representation to help you with your claim is essential.
At Schimmel & Parks, APLC, our attorneys are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to those affected by defective products, dangerous drugs, and other harmful practices. Our attorneys bring over 70 years of combined experience to every case. Our Sherman Oaks location has been serving the community since 2003, and we are committed to helping all of our clients pursue the ideal outcome for their legal needs. We know the challenges of these situations, and we are prepared to help you with your mass tort claim, no matter how complex they may seem.
Overcoming All Forms Of Mass Tort Claims
Our experienced attorneys have successfully represented clients in high-profile mass tort cases, securing substantial compensation for the victims of negligence and misconduct. We can provide you with peace of mind as we guide you through your unique claim, including those involving:
- Defective products: Items such as faulty car parts, household appliances and electronics can cause widespread harm.
- Dangerous pharmaceuticals: Defective medications that result in catastrophic or fatal injuries.
- Environmental disasters: Incidents like wildfires, floods and mudslides caused by negligence.
- Construction defects: Flaws in poor building designs that threaten multiple real estate properties.
If you have suffered serious injuries from faulty products, defective medicines or an environmental disaster, having us on your side can help you earn the outcome you deserve for your injuries. We are here to help you through every step of your mass tort litigation while we fight for the compensation you need. As we represent you, we will remain in constant contact to keep you informed about what is happening, how we are helping you, and how we expect your claim to be resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mass Tort Litigation
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from individuals in Sherman Oaks and throughout California who are considering participation in a mass tort claim.
What is the difference between a mass tort and a class action lawsuit?
Mass tort litigation and class action lawsuits both involve harm caused by the same product or conduct, but they function differently. In a class action, one or several plaintiffs represent a large group, and any resolution applies uniformly to all class members. Individual facts, injuries and damages are often grouped together, which can limit flexibility and recovery.
A mass tort, by contrast, allows each injured person to maintain an individual claim while still benefiting from coordinated proceedings. Cases are often consolidated for pretrial purposes, such as discovery and motions, but each claim remains separate. This structure allows courts to account for differences in exposure, medical history and severity of injury. For many injured individuals, mass tort litigation offers a more individualized path to accountability while still leveraging shared evidence and legal resources.
How do I know if I qualify for a specific mass tort case?
Eligibility for a mass tort depends on several factors tied to the specific product or incident at issue. These cases often involve defined criteria, such as proof of exposure, dates of use or residence, medical diagnoses or documented injuries linked to the alleged misconduct.
In most situations, qualifying requires showing that you used the product or were affected by the event during a specific time frame and suffered harm consistent with the claims being litigated. Medical records, purchase histories, employment information or geographic data may all be relevant. Because each mass tort has unique requirements, a detailed review of your circumstances is necessary to determine whether your claim aligns with the litigation parameters.
Can I join a mass tort if I have already filed an individual lawsuit?
In some situations, it may be possible to transition an individual lawsuit into a mass tort proceeding, but this depends on timing, jurisdiction and the status of your case. Courts may allow cases to be transferred into coordinated proceedings or multidistrict litigation when they involve the same factual and legal issues.
However, participation is not automatic. Factors such as whether discovery has begun, whether trial dates are scheduled or whether settlement discussions are underway can affect eligibility. In certain cases, remaining in an individual action may be the better option. A careful review of your existing lawsuit can help determine the most strategic path forward while protecting your procedural rights and potential recovery. This evaluation also helps avoid procedural missteps that could delay your claim or limit your ability to recover damages.
Start Your Claim With Confidence
Do not face mass tort litigation alone. Let our dedicated attorneys guide you through the process and advocate for your rights. We represent clients throughout the Los Angeles area and California, so contact us at 818-922-8544 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation with one of our lawyers today.