Define: Multidistrict Litigation

MDL is a legal procedure that consolidates similar lawsuits filed in different federal district courts into one court for pretrial proceedings. It helps streamline the litigation process and avoid duplicative efforts.

To become part of MDL, a case must involve common questions of fact and be transferred by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) to a single district court for coordinated pretrial proceedings.

MDL allows plaintiffs to pool their resources, share information, and benefit from the expertise of a single judge overseeing the pretrial proceedings. It can also expedite the resolution of cases and potentially lead to more consistent outcomes.

Yes, even though cases are consolidated for pretrial proceedings, each individual case retains its own identity. Parties can still negotiate and settle their cases independently, even if they are part of MDL.

The duration of MDL varies depending on the complexity of the cases involved. It can last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the progress of pretrial proceedings and any subsequent trials.

Yes, if a case no longer shares common questions of fact with the other cases in MDL, the court may grant a motion to remand the case back to its original district court for individual proceedings.

After pretrial proceedings, if the cases are not resolved or settled, they are typically remanded back to their original district courts for individual trials or further proceedings.

If your case involves similar facts and legal issues as the cases already part of MDL, you may be able to join the litigation by filing a motion to transfer your case to the MDL court.

No, settlements reached in MDL are typically binding only on the parties involved in those specific settlements. Other plaintiffs can choose to accept or reject the terms of the settlement and pursue their own individual claims.

Yes, plaintiffs have the option to opt out of MDL if they prefer to pursue their claims individually. However, opting out may result in the loss of certain benefits and efficiencies provided by MDL, such as shared discovery and resources.