FAQ
Question: If I fill out the form provided for on this web site and ask that you put me on your e-mail list, will that make me a plaintiff in the litigation? Or, make me a client of any of the attorneys involved in the litigation?
Answer: No, it will not.
Question: If I wanted to become a plaintiff, would you make me a plaintiff now?
Answer: No. The time has long passed for making individuals plaintiffs in the lawsuit. That does not mean that you may not benefit from the litigation.
Question: Will I be represented in the litigation, even if I am not a plaintiff?
Answer: Yes, as long as the Court certifies this as a “class action.” In that event, the named plaintiffs will be pursuing the litigation not only on their own behalves, but as “class representatives” on behalf of all other American Airlines flight attendants who are “similarly situated.” If you are a member of that “Class” you will then be represented.
Question: How will I know whether I am a member of the Class?
Answer: If the Court certifies a class, it will define its scope. Plaintiffs have requested certification of a Class that includes everyone employed as an American Airlines flight attendant on or after March 28, 2003. As plaintiffs defined the Class, it includes flight attendants who were on furlough during this period.
Question: If I am not a plaintiff, will I be able to share in any judgment, award or settlement of the Class action?
Answer: Yes, as long as you are a member of the Class and you properly and timely respond to any notices you are sent regarding the class and regarding any distribution. Depending upon the facts, different members of the Class may be entitled to different benefits or recoveries.
Question: What if I don’t want to accept the benefits that are achieved on my behalf. Can I reject them?
Answer: If a Class is certified, you will be given an opportunity to “opt out” of the Class.
Question: I hear that there are three lawsuits against the Union and the Airline. Is that true?
Answer: Originally, there were three separate lawsuits. The three cases have been consolidated. There is now one consolidated action.
Question: If I am interested in being included in the lawsuit, should I be sending you something to cover your attorneys’ fees?
Answer: No. Class actions are handled differently than most other types of litigation. At the end of the lawsuit, the attorneys for the Class will make an application to the Court to be paid. Members of the Class will have the opportunity to object to any applications for attorneys’ fees that are submitted, if they think there is an appropriate basis for objection. The Court would then rule on the application and on those objections.
Question: Can I give you suggestions and information for the lawsuit even if I am not a plaintiff?
Answer: Yes. Many other flight attendants and rank-and-file union members already have. You are welcome to as well. Please send us information, by email, to info@rpalawsuit.net. Write “RPA LAWSUIT” in the subject matter line of your email.