Cy Pres

When there is a class action lawsuit settlement or a trust that cannot be distributed entirely to its intended recipients, either because some class members cannot be located or because the full amount is not feasible to distribute, courts may approve of cy pres distributions. 

Cy pres, derived from a French term meaning "as near as possible," allows these funds to be redirected to charitable organizations like the Wage Justice Center whose mission align with the underlying purpose of the lawsuit or trust. In essence, it is about putting these unclaimed or undistributed funds to good use by supporting causes that serve the interests of the affected class or the intentions of the trust. 

Cy pres funding is vital for a legal aid organization like the Wage Justice Center. It helps us continue our mission of providing legal assistance to those who cannot afford it, ensuring access to justice for vulnerable populations. These funds might go toward funding legal representation for low-income individuals, supporting educational programs about legal rights and responsibilities, or economic justice efforts that benefit underserved communities. By designating the Wage Justice Center as a cy pres recipient, you are maximizing the impact of these unclaimed funds by helping us continue our legal aid efforts. 

If you, your firm, or someone you know is party to or counsel on a class-action case involving potential cy pres awards, you can nominate Wage Justice Center as an awardee. If you have any questions, need information, or are interested in designating the Wage Justice Center as a cy pres award recipient, please contact Tania Millan, Executive Director, at tania at wagejustice.org.