A mass tort is a civil lawsuit that involves hundreds or thousands of plaintiffs and one or a few defendants in which the plaintiffs have the same or similar claims against the defendant or defendants. Mass tort lawsuits are often filed as class action lawsuits (a procedural mechanism for joining the plaintiffs in one lawsuit), and are typically based on alleged wrongful acts (torts) such as exposure of the plaintiffs to harmful substances (asbestos or benzene), or defective products (pharmaceuticals or medical devices), or invasions of privacy (data breaches).

In Arkansas, as in other states, a mass tort is a type of civil lawsuit where numerous plaintiffs bring forth similar legal claims against one or a few defendants. These cases often arise from situations where plaintiffs have been harmed by things like toxic substances (e.g., asbestos), defective products (e.g., drugs or medical devices), or privacy violations (e.g., data breaches). Mass torts can be filed as class action lawsuits, which allows for the collective legal action of many individuals whose cases are sufficiently similar. Arkansas follows both state statutes and federal laws regarding the procedure and handling of mass torts. The Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure would guide the certification and management of a class action within the state, while federal laws and regulations may apply if the case involves federal jurisdiction, such as interstate matters or violations of federal law. It's important for plaintiffs in Arkansas considering a mass tort action to consult with an attorney who is experienced in this complex area of law to understand the specific requirements and procedures that apply.