January 16, 2026 | Class Action Lawsuits
Class action lawsuits are often associated with large settlements and high-profile cases—but they’re also known for taking a long time to resolve. If you’ve been notified that you’re part of a class action, or you’re considering joining one, a common and reasonable question is: “How long do class action lawsuits take?”
The short answer is that most class action lawsuits take several years from start to finish. However, the exact timeline depends on many factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of people involved, and whether the lawsuit settles or goes to trial.
Below, we break down the key stages of a class action lawsuit and explain what can affect how long the process lasts.
Typical Timeline of a Class Action Lawsuit
While no two cases are exactly alike, most class action lawsuits follow a similar structure. Understanding these phases can help explain why they often take so long.
1. Investigation and Filing (Several Months to Over a Year)
Before a class action is even filed, St. Petersburg personal injury attorneys must investigate the claims, gather evidence, and determine whether a class action is the best legal approach. This stage can take months, especially in cases involving defective products, data breaches, or widespread corporate misconduct.
Once enough evidence is gathered, the lawsuit is filed in court.
2. Class Certification (6 Months to 2 Years)
One of the most time-consuming stages is class certification. At this point, the court decides whether the case can proceed as a class action.
To certify a class, the plaintiffs must show that:
- There are enough affected individuals to justify a class action
- The legal issues are similar across the group
- The named plaintiffs can adequately represent the class
Defendants often strongly oppose class certification, leading to extensive legal arguments, motions, and hearings. Delays are common at this stage, especially if the defendant files appeals.
3. Discovery and Pretrial Motions (1 to 3 Years)
Once the class is certified, both sides enter the discovery phase, where they exchange evidence, take depositions, and analyze documents. In large class actions, discovery can involve millions of records and numerous expert witnesses.
During this time, attorneys may also file motions to dismiss or motions for summary judgment, which can further extend the timeline.
4. Settlement Negotiations (Months to Years)
Many class action lawsuits settle before trial. Settlement discussions can occur at almost any stage of the case, but negotiations often intensify after discovery reveals the strength of each side’s arguments.
Even when a settlement is reached, the process isn’t over. The court must review and approve the settlement to ensure it is fair to all class members. This approval process—including notice to class members and a fairness hearing—can take several additional months.
5. Trial and Appeals (1 to Several Years)
If a class action does not settle, it may proceed to trial. Trials themselves can last weeks or months, but the bigger delay often comes afterward.
Defendants frequently appeal unfavorable verdicts, and appeals can add one to three more years—or longer—to the overall timeline.
6. Distribution of Compensation (Several Months to Over a Year)
Even after a settlement or verdict becomes final, class members typically wait months before receiving compensation. Funds must be processed, claims reviewed, and administrative requirements completed before payments are issued.
Factors That Affect How Long a Class Action Takes
Several variables can significantly impact the duration of a class action lawsuit, including:
- Complexity of the legal issues
- Number of plaintiffs involved
- Amount of evidence and discovery required
- Whether the defendant cooperates or aggressively fights the case
- Court schedules and backlogs
- Appeals filed by either side
Large, nationwide class actions involving corporations or government agencies tend to take the longest.
Why Class Actions Take So Long
Class actions move slowly because courts must ensure fairness for everyone involved. Judges carefully review each step, especially settlements, to protect class members who are not actively participating in the case. While this oversight adds time, it helps ensure accountability and equitable outcomes.
Contact Graves Thomas Injury Law Group for a Free Consultation
So, how long do class action lawsuits take? In most cases, they can take two to five years—or even longer, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles or goes to trial. While the process may seem lengthy, these cases often require time to ensure fairness and accountability in large-scale legal disputes.
If you believe you may be eligible to participate in a class action lawsuit or have questions about your legal rights, the experienced attorneys at Graves Thomas Injury Law Group are here to help. We offer a free consultation to review your situation, explain your options, and help you decide the best path forward. Contact us today to learn more.
