How Can I Become the Lead Plaintiff in a Securities Class Action Lawsuit? 

by Scott L. Silver

Last Updated May 21, 2025 In Class Actions

When you’re a plaintiff in a securities fraud class action lawsuit, you have minimal direct involvement in the proceedings. Some investors wish to have a little more control in the matter.

On the other hand, the lead plaintiff in a class action is informed of all developments and has a say in the litigation strategy. Contact Silver Law Group if you’d like to become the lead plaintiff in a securities fraud class action lawsuit.

Responsibilities Of The Lead Plaintiff

There are numerous benefits to being the lead plaintiff in a securities fraud class action. You help manage the litigation, which includes naming the lead counsel, reviewing court filings, setting negotiation strategy, and approving any proposed settlement.

There are, however, a few downsides to consider. As lead plaintiff, you may be deposed by defendant’s counsel. Reviewing filings and making strategic decisions will require an investment of time, although Silver Law Group attorneys will use your time efficiently and handle the bulk of the legal procedure.

Qualifying To Be Lead Plaintiff In A Securities Fraud Class Action

Class action lawsuits typically involve anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds of thousands of plaintiffs, or even more. The people managing the lawsuit must have interests aligned with the interests of all the other plaintiffs.

In a class action lawsuit, the lead plaintiff is usually the person or institution with the most at stake. Judges may evaluate this based on the dollar value of the plaintiff’s losses or the magnitude of the loss as a percentage of net worth.

The savvy attorneys at Silver Law Group often have a good idea about the extent of the losses that might qualify an investor to be a lead plaintiff. They can offer their candid opinion about whether you may qualify or be appointed.

Process To Apply To Be Lead Plaintiff involving Publicly Traded Securities

When your losses due to securities fraud are substantial involving a publicly traded security, you may apply to be the lead plaintiff in the class action. However, you must act quickly to be considered. When the first lawsuit is filed, the attorney for the plaintiff will publish a notice in a nationally circulated periodical. Anyone interested in being the lead plaintiff has 60 days from the publication date to file a motion with the court asking to be considered. Courts strictly enforce the deadline.

Silver Law Group has extensive experience representing plaintiffs in securities fraud claims and our attorneys can help you prepare an effective motion for consideration as lead plaintiff.

Work With Silver Law Group To Bring A Motion For Consideration As Lead Plaintiff

Only investors with a lot at stake potentially qualify to be the lead plaintiff in a securities fraud class action lawsuit. In many cases involving retail investors and securities not traded on the public markets or claims against third parties, the rules can be different and a smaller investor may potentially become the lead plaintiff.  If you believe that you might qualify, and you’re interested in taking on the responsibility of managing the litigation, contact Silver Law Group today.