Recent Trends in Wage and Hour Settlements: Big Money For Plaintiffs; Big Cost for Companies

Recent Trends in Wage and Hour Litigation, a report recently released by NERA Economic Consulting, analyzes trends across 187 reported settlements of wage and hour cases from 2007 to 2010.  What is clear is that wage and hour class litigation is here to stay, and in a big way.

The study reports:

• While the number of wage and hour settlements increased over time, there has been a sharp decline in the value of settlements.  By year, the average settlement value decreased from more than $20 million in 2007 and 2008, to just over $10 million in 2009 and $7.6 million in 2010.
• The size of the potential class and the duration of the alleged class period are the key factors driving settlement value.  Other factors include the number and type of allegations made and the jurisdiction involved.

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