Key points
- Investigations typically last three to eighteen months before a filing decision is made.
- The firm collects registrations of interest to assess group size and eligibility spread.
- No formal proceedings exist during an investigation — no court has been approached.
- Registering interest during an investigation does not create a legal obligation.
- The firm may announce it will not proceed if the case does not meet the legal threshold.
What law firms assess during an investigation
- Legal merit: Is there an arguable cause of action against the defendant?
- Group size: Are there at least seven affected people who qualify?
- Common issue: Do group members share at least one legal question?
- Funding: Will a litigation funder back the case, and at what commission?
- Proportionality: Is the likely recovery sufficient to justify the cost?
Your role during an investigation
If you believe you may be affected, you can register your interest with the investigating firm. This signals your potential group membership and ensures you are notified when the firm makes a filing decision. You are not required to sign any agreement at this stage, and registering does not bind you to anything.
How investigations are listed on ClassActions.com.au
Matters under active investigation are listed in the registry with an ‘Under Investigation’ status indicator. You can follow a matter to receive updates as it progresses from investigation to filing. Following costs nothing and creates no legal or financial obligation.
This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. ClassActions.com.au is an independent information service and is not a law firm. If you believe you may have a legal claim, consult a qualified Australian legal practitioner.