Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)
A process that groups similar cases in one court to handle pretrial matters more efficiently.
What is Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)?
Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) is a federal legal procedure that consolidates multiple civil cases with common factual questions into a single district court for pretrial proceedings, streamlining discovery, motions, and coordination before potential remand or trial.
Why It Matters?
MDL reduces duplicative litigation, saves judicial resources, and ensures consistent rulings across related cases.
Example
Several plaintiffs file lawsuits against a pharmaceutical company for the same drug’s side effects. The cases are consolidated into an MDL to coordinate discovery and pretrial motions efficiently.
Related Terms
Mediation
Litigation