Mass Torts

Mass tort is a term of art referring to civil litigation that comprises a large number of tort claims arising out of the same factual circumstances and alleging the same or similar harm to individuals, organizations, or other entities. Scholars first used the term to refer exclusively to personal injury or property damage claims resulting from a catastrophic event, such as a fire or building collapse, or arising out of use of a single product, such as a drug or medical device, or exposure to a toxic substance, such as asbestos. The term's scope has expanded, however, to include any type of mass civil litigation alleging harm to individuals or organizations, including claims of financial injury due to fraud, violations of securities laws, or claims ...