If the class actions about to settle are for compensatory damages, it looks like your only other option is to opt-out.
http://itchmoforums.com/news-recall-related/petfood-lawsuits-are-near-settlement-say-attorneysnew-theory-t3881.30.htmlKnow your rights in a class action settlement:
Some very informative links here:
http://classactionlitigation.com/faq.htmlCan I be bound by a settlement or judgment of a class action?
Yes. If the constitutional and procedural protections required for fairness are met in the underlying action, all absent class members are bound to the judgment or settlement of the case. However, if the action is primarily for compensatory damages, absent class members are entitled to notice and an opportunity to "opt-out" (exclude themselves) from the proceedings. If a person opts-out, he is not bound by any judgment or settlement of the class action. In the event a class action is for declaratory or injunctive relief, notice is not required to bind absent class members and the court may not allow your to opt-out.
Some general comments about class actions here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Class_action#Federal_class_actions[edit] Federal class actions
In the United States federal courts, class actions are governed by Federal Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 23 and 28 U.S.C.A. ยง 1332 (d).
