Class Action Soon a Reality?

Few people would consider it worthwhile to sue a company for a product or service, which costs a fraction of possible legal fees. But when a large group of people combine their lawsuits, it not only saves money for the complainants but also court time.

Finnish consumer watchdogs have argued for years that class action suits be allowed by law. At present, they say companies can cause dismay to consumers with relative impunity. Class actions could, for example, be filed against a teleoperator, bank or insurance company that abruptly raise fees or rates.

The Central Chamber of Commerce says class actions are a bad idea. It maintains that consumers are well-protected in Finland. What's more, it argues that allowing them would make Finland far less attractive to foreign investors.

Sweden allowed class action two years ago. And Finland is usually quick to follow suit.

On Friday, a task force set up by the Justice Ministry to will hand over its recommendations to the government. Justice Minister Johannes Koskinen says support for class action lawsuits exists within the government.