Group litigation is having a moment, with more and more people banding together to take on big organisations. Whether seeking justice for data breaches or fighting misleading financial practices, group litigation demands wrongdoers take accountability and change their ways. But what’s driving this surge? And why are so many seeing the value in standing together?
In this post, we’ll dig into the popularity of group litigation, exploring the collective power behind shared claims, the benefits of reduced legal costs, and the broader impact of digital platforms in connecting claimants.
Why group litigation is growing in popularity
Group litigation is gaining traction as an effective way to pursue justice. Here are just some of the reasons why it’s resonating:
Justice has become increasingly accessible
Several factors have made group litigation a more accessible path to justice, empowering people to stand up against large organisations.
- Shared legal costs: Lawsuits are notoriously expensive, which has discouraged people from standing up to large organisations. Especially when these corporations have vast resources and lawyers on tap. But in group litigation, claimants share legal costs, significantly lowering the financial burden for each participant.
- Access to top-tier solicitors: The shared-cost model attracts experienced solicitors who might otherwise be out of reach for individuals. Leading law firms are more willing to take on high-stake group cases with larger potential payouts, providing claimants with access to expert legal representation and resources.
- A more level playing field: With top legal teams on their side, claimants in group litigation can challenge powerful corporate legal teams on more equal terms.
- Technology-driven accessibility: Advances in technology have lowered entry barriers, making it easier for people to find, join, and participate in group litigation. (More on this later!)
There has been a rise in no-win, no-fee agreements
No-win, no-fee agreements have become more common in group litigation, allowing individuals to join claims with minimal financial risk. Under these agreements, claimants:
- Pay no legal fees upfront and nothing if they lose.
- Only pay if the case is successful and they receive compensation.
For many, the no-win, no-fee structure is essential, as it removes the financial risk that can often deter individuals from pursuing legal action.
The UK legal system is more open to mass claims
Class actions have long been popular in the United States, with the UK lagging behind. But over the last few years, there has been growing recognition of the importance of group litigation on this side of the pond. Changes in the legal system have made it easier for law firms to start mass claims, giving people the chance to pursue collective justice without the complexity of initiating individual lawsuits.
People want justice
There’s a growing awareness of the importance of redress, especially in light of recent scandals like the Post Office miscarriage of justice. These cases have shown that some large entities engage in practices that harm individuals, often without proper accountability. Seeing the courage and resilience of others encourages victims of other mass wrongdoings to come forward.
High-profile cases prove people are stronger together
Notable cases have shown that individuals can achieve powerful results when they come together. The growing visibility of these lawsuits sends a clear message: when people join forces, they gain substantial bargaining power, a louder voice, and the ability to challenge corporations on an equal footing. Let’s take a look at some of these cases.
Examples of high-profile group litigation cases
Over the years, several group litigation cases have captured the public’s attention, highlighting the growing popularity and impact of this legal approach. Here are a few notable examples that demonstrate the power of collective action.
Diesel emissions claims
After it was discovered that several car brands had installed software to manipulate emissions readings, making vehicles appear more environmentally friendly than they actually were, car owners came together to sue the offending automobile manufacturers. Some ‘dieselgate’ claims are still ongoing. This high-profile case not only empowered individual car owners but also shed light on the need for stricter environmental and consumer protection regulations.
British Airways data breach claim
In 2018, British Airways suffered a data breach affecting around 400,000 customers, exposing their personal and financial details to cybercriminals. Many of those affected joined a group litigation claim against the airline, seeking compensation for the breach of their data and the loss, anxiety, and inconvenience it caused. British Airways eventually agreed to pay a settlement to compensate affected customers.
Talcum powder claim
In a talcum powder claim against Johnson & Johnson, lawyers alleged the company knew its talc products contained potentially dangerous asbestos, but failed to warn customers. Johnson & Johnson agreed to pay billions of pounds in compensation to settle talc cancer cases in the US, and UK lawyers have now launched similar claims. Despite asserting its products were safe, in 2023, Johnson and Johnson replaced talc with cornstarch in all its talcum powder products.
The Horizon Post Office scandal
Between 2000 and 2014, hundreds of Post Office employees were wrongfully accused of theft, fraud, and false accounting due to errors in Fujitsu’s Horizon IT system. A group litigation claim led to a £58 million settlement, further compensation payouts, and the quashing of criminal convictions for affected postmasters. A BBC programme amplified public awareness of the scandal, helping to cement its place in the national conversation.
PPI mis-selling claims
According to MoneySavingExpert, Martin Lewis, “PPI mis-selling is the UK’s single biggest financial scandal in living memory.” Widely mis-sold to customers who were either ineligible or unlikely to benefit from it, with banks and lenders failing to disclose the terms and limitations of the product, PPI was often added to loans and credit agreements without explicit consent. By 2019, compensation payouts for PPI mis-selling reached over £38 billion. Law firm Harcus Parker is hoping to launch a new no-win, no-fee claim in a bid to recover a further £18 billion in PPI premiums.
The role of technology in group litigation
The surge in group litigation popularity is closely tied to the evolution of digital platforms and social media, which have transformed the way people learn about and join collective claims.
Digital platforms connect and inform potential claimants
In the past, many people weren’t aware they could join a collective claim. Today, online platforms make it easy to find and join relevant actions. Websites dedicated to group claims, like Join the Claim, let people check their eligibility, access information on high-profile cases, and sign up to a lawsuit – all in one place. They make group litigation more accessible by reducing the need for in-person consultations or complex legal documentation, simplifying the process for those unfamiliar with, or put off by, legal proceedings.
Social media amplifies awareness and mobilises action
When high-profile cases are discussed on platforms like X, Facebook, and TikTok, they reach people who may have been affected but were unaware of the legal action. Social media also helps to unite people who may otherwise feel isolated or powerless against large corporations by providing a space for discussions and shared experiences. This collective momentum makes it easier for law firms to organise collective claims, further driving the popularity of group litigation.
Want to keep up to date with the latest and breaking group litigation cases? Give us a follow!
Technology makes it easier for law firms to manage group actions
Modern software lets firms efficiently manage hundreds or even thousands of claimants within a single platform. These systems centralise personal data, case updates, and legal documents, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks and making it easier for firms to keep all parties informed. What’s more, data analysis tools are helping firms identify which cases to pursue, emerging trends, and even how to develop more effective legal strategies. Such advancements make law firms more open to running group claims, further fuelling their rise.
A powerful way to address widespread wrongdoing
Group litigation is transforming how individuals pursue justice. By uniting, claimants amplify their voices, hold corporations accountable, and push for fair compensation. This collective power also drives public awareness and can even influence corporate behaviour for the better.
Ready to join forces and make your voice heard?
If you’re facing a legal issue, don’t go it alone. Group litigation gives you the support, resources, and strength in numbers needed to stand up to powerful entities. Explore your options with us – check your eligibility, join ongoing cases, and be part of a movement that demands accountability.
