If I have a claim, should I file my own lawsuit?

The answer depends on the nature of the suit and individual circumstances. Some class actions seek recovery for a large group of people; however, individual damages may be small. For instance, if a mortgage company was improperly charging interest, and as a result every class member paid $100 more than should have been charged, it may not be practical because of the cost of litigation to pursue such a case individually. On the other hand, if a person has substantial damages and a serious claim, a lawyer should be consulted to assist in making the decision. In cases where the damages involved do not amount to several thousand dollars, litigation involving complex issues, due to the cost involved, may result in no recovery after those expenses and costs are deducted.