Class action lawsuits play a critical role in protecting workers’ rights — especially when a company’s actions impact many employees or applicants in the same way. If you’ve heard about a recent class action lawsuit in the news, you may be wondering what a class action is, how it works, and whether you may qualify as a class member.
This guide offers an overview of how class action lawsuits function in Washington state, with a specific focus on how these cases may impact employees and job applicants in situations involving wage transparency and unlawful employment practices.
What Is a Class Action Lawsuit?
A class action is a legal process that allows a group of people who have experienced the same or similar harm to file a lawsuit together. Rather than each individual filing a separate case, a class action consolidates the claims into one legal action — making it more efficient and often more powerful.
Common types of class actions include:
- Unpaid wages or wage theft
- Discrimination or harassment
- Violations of consumer protection laws
- Breaches of data privacy
- Hiring or wage transparency violations
In the employment context, class actions are often used when companies violate labor laws on a broad scale, affecting dozens or even thousands of workers.
How Do Class Actions Work in Washington State?
Class action lawsuits typically follow this process:
1. Filing the Complaint
Attorneys file a lawsuit in court on behalf of a “class representative” — a person whose experience is typical of others affected. This individual essentially acts as the voice of the group.
2. Certification of the Class
The court must determine that a class action is appropriate. This step, called class certification, ensures that:
- The group is large enough to justify a class action.
- The claims share common legal or factual issues.
- The representative will fairly and adequately represent the group.
3. Notifying Potential Class Members
If the class is certified, potential class members will be notified by mail, email, or public notice. The notice includes key information, such as the nature of the lawsuit and the steps individuals must take to join or opt out.
4. Litigation or Settlement
The lawsuit may proceed to trial, or the parties may reach a settlement. If successful, compensation is distributed to qualifying class members based on agreed terms or court orders.
Why Join a Class Action?
For many workers, joining a class action is the most practical and cost-effective way to pursue justice — especially when the damages are modest but the violations are serious.
Benefits include:
- No out-of-pocket legal fees: Attorneys typically work on a contingency basis.
- Efficiency: One case instead of hundreds.
- Shared evidence: Saves time and reduces the burden on individual plaintiffs.
- Greater legal power: Strength in numbers often increases pressure on the employer to resolve the case fairly.
What If I Want to File My Own Case?
Some individuals may choose to opt out of a class action and pursue an individual claim. This may be appropriate if:
- Your damages are significantly different or larger than those of the class
- You have claims that are unique from the rest of the group
- You want direct control over your legal strategy and case timeline
However, filing your own claim can be more complex, costly, and time-consuming. Many workers find that joining a class action offers a more accessible path to justice.
How Do I Know If I’m Part of the Class?
Once the court certifies the class, you’ll likely receive a notice if you are part of the group. However, you don’t have to wait — contacting the attorneys handling the case can help you determine your eligibility sooner.
Final Thoughts
Class action lawsuits are an essential tool for holding employers accountable and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. If you suspect that your rights have been violated — whether by Nordstrom or another employer — don’t wait to speak up.
The attorneys at Emery | Reddy have helped thousands of Washington workers recover unpaid wages, challenge illegal workplace practices, and stand up to powerful companies.
