Class action mediation cases hold a certain degree of difficulty because of the nature, geography and length of the cases, the multiple parties, and interests involved. We handle all types of class action cases. They can involve complex discovery disputes, claims process, settlement administration, fee disputes, objectors, class proceedings and the Class Action Fairness Act. We design an overall comprehensive plan for mediation, implemented in a timely and systematic manner for a structured, fair resolution to the conflicts presented.
Specifically, one aspect of class action mediation is that similarly situated class members must be treated uniformly. Normally, the only uniform needs the members will have is their need for money. There are also real underlying concerns for justice, fair treatment, or other changes that may not be as uniform across the class. Sometimes the nature of class action is more focused on 'distributive bargaining', which is heavily focused on getting the most money for the plaintiff or the absolute minimum from the defendant. This tension is where the Best Ideas Win approach for mediation can have the most impact, as it is not a universal, but individualized approach to problem solving.