Class Actions: Recent Developments in the Authorization Stage

Class actions are one of the rare procedural vehicles subject to prior authorization of the court.

This step usually results from the plaintiff seeking action without a warrant in the name of a group of absentees, which justifies such prior judicial review. In practice, it also allows the court to screen the claims so as not to burden the judicial system with too many cases (which are often complex and expensive) that do not meet the authorization criteria set out by the legislator.

Overtime, considerable case law has developed on various aspects of the authorization process. The high number and frequency of authorization applications the courts must process make this case law particularly dynamic and ever-evolving.

Our speakers will provide you with an overview of recent developments in several aspects of the authorization process, such as:

• Multi-jurisdictional class actions
• Impact of arbitration or forum clauses
• Other preliminary exceptions at the authorization stage
• Evidence required (plaintiff) and allowed (defendant)
• Authorization criteria
• What is sometimes overlooked: the group description and issues to be addressed collectively

This review will also give our speakers the opportunity to share some practical tips for organizations facing a class action application.

Agenda

• 8h - 8h30 - Arrival of participants and breakfast
• 8h30 - Login
• 8h30 - 10h - Presentation and question period

Cost

This training is offered courtesy of Fasken. 

Webinar materials and recording: If you are unable to attend the live training, choose the option to submit materials and recording on the registration page.