Below are some of the frequently asked questions (FAQ) that we receive from our clients and potential clients:

• What is a class action lawsuit?
• Who is included in the “Light” Cigarette Class?
• What cigarette brands are covered in this lawsuit?
• What about “ultra-light” cigarettes?
• Who pays for the lawyers?
• What is the status of the case?
• What if I have medical problems that I think may be caused by smoking cigarettes?
• How can I find out more about this case and any progress?

What is a class action lawsuit?

A class action is a lawsuit where one person (or a few people) seeks to represent a larger group of people who have similar legal claims against the same defendants.  The court must agree that it is appropriate for a defined “Class” to be “certified” and for the “representative plaintiff” to pursue claims on behalf the Class. 

Who is included in the "Light" Cigarette Class?

The Class in this case includes all United States residents who have purchased cigarettes labeled as “Lights” and/or “Light” (collectively “light cigarettes”) that were manufactured by Defendants prior to the date trial commences (currently January 2007).  Class members must have purchased light cigarettes in the United States for their personal consumption.

Excluded from this Class are individuals who are directors and officers of the Defendants’ corporations, their parents, subsidiaries and/or affiliates; or members of a certified state class seeking economic damages stemming from their purchases of light cigarettes or having obtained an award of, or a denial of, such damages. 

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What cigarette brands are covered in this lawsuit?

Click here to view a list of cigarette brands covered by this class action. 

What about "ultra-light" cigarettes?

Cigarettes labeled as “ultra-lights” are not included in this lawsuit.

Who pays for the lawyers?

In most class action lawsuits, including this case, class members are represented by attorneys who work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorneys do not receive fees or reimbursement for expenses unless the lawsuit results in a recovery for the class members. In addition, if a recovery is obtained, the court must approve any payment of reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses incurred in connection with the suit.

What is the status of the case?

Defendants appealed the class certification decision to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, and on April 3, 2008 the Second Circuit decertified the case and remanded it to the trial court for further proceedings consistent with that ruling.

What if I have medical problems that I think may be caused by smoking cigarettes?

This is not a personal injury case.  The class that was certified addresses economic damages stemming from the purchase of light cigarettes.  If you believe that you have personal injuries related to smoking cigarettes, you should consult with an attorney regarding such claims.

How can I find out more about this case and any progress?

You should monitor major news sources for additional and continuing information on this important litigation.  Finkelstein Thompson LLP will endeavor to update its website with significant developments in the case.