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 Delaware, mass tort litigation is a legal process that allows numerous plaintiffs who have been similarly harmed by a defendant's actions to join together in a single lawsuit. These cases often involve harm caused by toxic substances, defective products, or privacy violations such as data breaches. While mass torts can be filed as class action lawsuits, they are distinct in that each plaintiff may have unique damages and the cases are often more complex. Delaware courts handle mass torts under the same rules and procedures that govern other civil litigation, with additional considerations for the management of these large and complex cases. The state's court system is structured to efficiently process mass tort claims, ensuring that the rights of both plaintiffs and defendants are protected. Federal laws may also apply, especially if the case involves federal jurisdiction or crosses state lines. It is important for plaintiffs in a mass tort case to consult with an attorney who is experienced in this area of law to navigate the complexities of the litigation process.