Edward Elgar Publishing Mass Justice: Challenges of Representation and Distribution

This insightful book considers phenomena such as mass torts, which affect numerous victims, and complex insolvency cases, which concern multiple and often competing interests. The editors identify and respond to the need for reflection on the notion of ‘mass justice’. The assembled contributors show that while private law is usually debated in terms of individual rights and duties, the reality is that these are deeply influenced by collective issues. They address examples such as the operation of class actions; the availability of insurance funds; the logistics of negotiating with and compensating a wide range of individuals; as well as distribution of assets in insolvency proceedings. This unique and detailed book will appeal to academics and students of private law as well as those with an interest in law and society. Scholars from non-law disciplines with an interest in insurance and liability will also find this study thought-provoking, as will practitioners and policy-makers. Review ‘Mass Justice is an interesting volume which Edward Elgar saw the wisdom of publishing since, in the United Kingdom, there is not much legal activity as regards class actions, unlike in the United States. . .’ -- Sally Ramage, The Criminal Lawyer ‘Claims for compensation in private law are traditionally categorised and considered as individual rights but, as this set of essays demonstrates, increasingly in practice they develop into collective claims. The problems this poses, and the variety of solutions available to deal with them, are expertly analysed across different legal systems. A publication of immense importance, for policymakers and practitioners alike.’ -- Anthony Ogus, Professor Emeritus, University of Manchester, UK and Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands About the Author Edited by Jenny Steele, University of York, UK and Willem H. van Boom, Leiden Law School, Leiden University, the Netherlands