Best Class-Action Law Firms in Wisconsin
Class-action lawsuits in Wisconsin require specialized legal expertise to manage complex cases involving multiple plaintiffs and significant financial stakes. Claims administrators and law firms need attorneys who understand both state and federal procedural requirements, as Wisconsin's class action statute remains fairly vague compared to Federal Rule 23.
The most experienced class-action law firms in Wisconsin combine extensive litigation experience with deep knowledge of procedural requirements, offering both plaintiff and defendant representation across diverse practice areas. These firms handle everything from employment disputes to consumer protection cases, providing the resources and expertise necessary for successful outcomes. Wisconsin employment law firms like Cross Law Firm handle class actions across the country, demonstrating the reach and capability of the state's top legal professionals.
1) Habush Habush & Rottier
Habush Habush & Rottier specializes in class action settlements throughout Wisconsin. The firm operates on a contingency fee basis, collecting payment only when cases result in successful outcomes for clients.
The firm maintains over a dozen office locations across Wisconsin, including Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Madison. This extensive network provides statewide coverage for class action matters and mass tort litigation.
Habush Habush & Rottier has operated for more than 90 years, focusing primarily on personal injury law and related class action cases. The firm represents individuals and families in cases involving negligence, product liability, and medical malpractice.
Elite Litigators rates the firm at 4.8 stars with 94% of reviews classified as exceptional. Client feedback indicates strong performance in case management and settlement negotiations.
The firm's class action practice covers various areas including consumer protection, product defects, and workplace violations. Their established infrastructure supports large-scale litigation requiring extensive case coordination and client communication systems.
Claims administrators working with Habush Habush & Rottier benefit from the firm's experience in settlement administration and distribution processes developed over decades of class action work.
2) von Briesen & Roper
von Briesen & Roper operates as one of Wisconsin's largest law firms with over 200 professionals. Founded in 1904, the firm maintains offices throughout Wisconsin and Chicago.
The firm handles class action cases for both defendants and plaintiffs. Their attorneys represent businesses facing class action lawsuits in state and federal courts.
von Briesen & Roper also assists companies looking to bring their own class action claims. This dual approach gives them experience on both sides of class action litigation.
The firm practices in multiple areas beyond class actions. These include commercial litigation, employment law, and business restructuring matters.
Their Madison office employs 13 lawyers who work on various practice areas. The firm's class action expertise focuses on cost-effective representation for business clients.
Claims administrators and law firms often work with von Briesen & Roper on complex litigation matters. The firm's size allows them to handle large-scale class action cases that require significant resources.
3) Crivello Carlson S.C.
Crivello Carlson S.C. operates as a Milwaukee-based litigation firm with over 60 years of experience. The firm handles class-action cases alongside construction litigation, architectural disputes, and commercial matters.
The attorneys specialize in trial and appellate work, mediation, and arbitration throughout the nation. They represent publicly-traded corporations, privately-held companies, and family-owned businesses in complex litigation matters.
Crivello Carlson focuses on managing litigation complexity while controlling expenses for clients. The firm maintains facilities at 710 N Plankinton Ave in Milwaukee and can be reached at (414) 271-7722.
Their practice areas include architectural and engineering litigation, civil rights cases, and commercial disputes. The firm serves claims administrators and corporate clients requiring experienced class-action representation.
The attorneys handle cases involving construction defects, professional liability, and corporate disputes. They provide consultation services and represent clients in both state and federal courts across multiple jurisdictions.
4) Gimbel Reilly Guerin & Brown LLP
Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown LLP operates as a Wisconsin trial and litigation firm serving clients since 1968. The Milwaukee-based firm handles class-action litigation alongside white collar criminal defense and personal injury cases.
The firm earned recognition as Trial & Litigation Law Firm of the Year - Wisconsin 2025 from Legal Insider. This award acknowledges their courtroom experience across multiple practice areas.
GRGB maintains Tier 1 rankings in appellate practice, criminal defense, and litigation according to industry publications. Their attorneys represent both individuals and businesses in complex civil litigation matters.
The firm received the "Best Law Firm-Full Service" designation at the Shepherd Express's "Best of Milwaukee" event in January 2024. Claims administrators work with GRGB on cases involving corporate liability and regulatory compliance issues.
Their litigation team focuses on results-driven representation for clients facing class-action lawsuits. The firm's decades of experience provides stability for long-term litigation management needs.
5) Quarles & Brady LLP
Quarles & Brady operates as a multidisciplinary AmLaw 200 firm with approximately 520 attorneys across 12 offices nationwide. The firm maintains a strong presence in Wisconsin with offices in Milwaukee and Madison.
The firm was established in 1974 through a merger of two Milwaukee-based law firms. It has developed significant expertise in class action defense over its 50-year history.
Quarles & Brady's litigation team handles complex class action matters across multiple practice areas. The firm represents corporate defendants in consumer protection, employment, and commercial class actions.
The Milwaukee office serves as the firm's headquarters and houses many of its senior litigation partners. According to recent rankings, the firm employs 481 attorneys and generated nearly $390 million in gross revenue.
Claims administrators working with Quarles & Brady benefit from the firm's established relationships with courts throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. The firm's attorneys regularly handle notice administration coordination and settlement implementation.
The litigation team takes an offense-oriented approach to class action defense. They focus on early case assessment and aggressive motion practice to achieve favorable outcomes for corporate clients facing class certification.
6) Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is a full-service law firm with more than 350 lawyers and technical professionals across 13 offices in the United States. The firm was founded in 1848 by trial lawyer Edward G. Ryan, who later served as chief justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
The firm's litigation practice group includes more than 70 attorneys and paralegals who handle various types of disputes. They specialize in antitrust, false advertising, construction, employment, and product liability cases.
Michael Best maintains strong capabilities in class action suits and collective actions. Their attorneys handle multidistrict litigation and bring experience in managing complex cases that can impact organizations financially.
The firm serves clients nationwide from offices across multiple states. They focus on understanding clients' entire organizations rather than just legal matters. This approach allows them to act as strategic partners for businesses facing class action litigation.
Their class action team has the resources and experience needed to handle financially significant cases. They work on matters that can cause substantial damage to organizations' marketplace reputation and financial standing.
7) Godfrey & Kahn S.C.
Godfrey & Kahn operates as one of Wisconsin's leading business law firms with more than 190 attorneys across six locations. The firm maintains offices in Milwaukee, Madison, Appleton, Green Bay, Eau Claire, and Washington D.C.
Founded in 1957, the firm serves multinational corporations, publicly traded companies, and middle-market businesses. Their client base spans from large enterprises to family-owned operations requiring strategic legal counsel.
The firm earned Tier 1 rankings in multiple practice areas according to Best Lawyers recognition in 2024. They received 5 Tier 1 rankings in Green Bay, 15 in Madison, and 23 in Milwaukee.
Godfrey & Kahn provides litigation services across banking, bankruptcy, corporate law, and environmental matters. Their attorneys handle complex commercial disputes and regulatory compliance issues for Wisconsin businesses.
The firm connects to TerraLex's global network, providing access to 17,000 attorneys across 155 law firms in 100 countries. This international reach supports clients with multi-jurisdictional legal needs.
8) O'Neil, Cannon, Hollman, DeJong & Laing S.C.
O'Neil, Cannon, Hollman, DeJong & Laing S.C. operates as a Wisconsin-based law firm that focuses on meeting business and personal legal needs of companies and their owners. The firm maintains offices in Milwaukee and serves clients throughout the state.
The attorneys work with businesses at all stages of development, from startup formation through growth and transition phases. They handle corporate matters, mergers and acquisitions, and business litigation cases for their clients.
The firm received recognition in 2021 with a Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating based on feedback from fellow attorneys. This rating requires at least three reviews and maintains a score of 4.0 or higher from legal professionals.
Their practice structure emphasizes shareholder involvement in client matters. The law firm's Corporate/M&A department handles business transactions and related legal issues for Wisconsin companies.
Claims administrators and law firms may find their business litigation experience relevant for referral opportunities. The firm's Milwaukee office is located at 111 East Wisconsin Avenue.
9) Axley Brynelson LLP
Axley Brynelson LLP ranks as the #1 law firm for over nine years according to InBusiness Magazine. The firm serves clients ranging from individuals to multinational corporations.
The firm's class action team handles both defense and prosecution matters. Axley's class action attorneys defend against class actions while also partnering with other firms to prosecute class and collective actions.
Axley has established itself as one of Wisconsin's premier litigation firms. Their extensive experience covers a wide variety of disputes across multiple practice areas.
The firm received significant recognition in The Best Lawyers in America 2026 list. One Axley attorney earned "Lawyer of the Year" status, with 31 additional attorneys receiving "Best Lawyers" recognition.
Notable attorneys include Michael Modl, a senior partner in the litigation and labor practice groups. Heath Straka has been named a Top Rated Personal Injury, Class Action, and Mass Torts Attorney on Wisconsin Super Lawyers List.
For claims administrators and law firms seeking Wisconsin counsel, Axley offers proven class action experience with a track record of handling complex litigation matters effectively.
10) Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C.
Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C. operated as a Wisconsin-based law firm until its merger with a larger national firm. The firm had offices in Madison and Milwaukee, serving clients across multiple practice areas.
In 2016, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek added a class action litigation team to expand its capabilities in this specialized area. This team brought experience handling complex class action cases for clients throughout Wisconsin.
The firm was founded in 1943 and served as Wisconsin's only member of the American Law Firm Association. This membership provided access to enhanced resources and networking opportunities with other regional firms.
Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek offered services in business litigation, commercial finance, construction law, and consumer financial services. The firm maintained a focus on serving both individual clients and business entities across various industries.
The firm completed a combination with Husch Blackwell, creating one of the year's largest law firm mergers. This combination expanded the firm's geographic reach and practice capabilities while retaining operations in Wisconsin markets.
Key Qualities of Leading Class-Action Law Firms
The most effective class-action law firms share three critical characteristics that distinguish them in complex litigation. These firms demonstrate specialized expertise, maintain strong settlement records, and prioritize clear client communication throughout lengthy legal proceedings.
Expertise in Class-Action Litigation
Class-action cases require attorneys with deep knowledge of procedural rules and certification requirements. Leading class action lawyers must possess keen negotiation skills and understand various complex areas of litigation.
Essential expertise areas include:
- Securities fraud and financial misconduct
- Consumer protection violations
- Products liability claims
- Employment law disputes
- Antitrust violations
Top firms employ attorneys who focus exclusively on class-action work rather than general litigation. This specialization allows them to navigate the unique challenges of representing large groups of plaintiffs.
The certification process demands precise legal strategy. Firms must demonstrate that individual cases share common questions of law or fact. This requires extensive case law knowledge and procedural expertise.
Track Record of Successful Outcomes
Settlement amounts and case outcomes provide concrete evidence of firm capabilities. The most lucrative class action settlements occur in products liability, antitrust, securities fraud, consumer fraud, and discrimination cases.
Key performance indicators include:
- Total settlement amounts recovered
- Number of successful class certifications
- Average time to resolution
- Client satisfaction rates
Established firms maintain detailed records of their case results and settlement distributions. They can provide specific examples of similar cases and outcomes to potential clients.
Successful firms also demonstrate efficiency in claims administration. They work closely with professional administrators to ensure proper distribution of settlement funds to class members.
Client Support and Communication
Class-action cases often span multiple years, requiring consistent client communication and support. Firms must keep lead plaintiffs informed about case progress and major developments.
Effective firms provide regular status updates through multiple channels. They explain complex legal concepts in accessible language for non-attorney clients.
Communication standards include:
- Monthly progress reports
- Direct attorney access for lead plaintiffs
- Clear fee structure explanations
- Timely responses to client inquiries
Professional firms also maintain transparent fee arrangements. They explain contingency fee structures and potential case expenses upfront. This transparency builds trust and prevents misunderstandings during lengthy litigation processes.
Class-Action Lawsuits in Wisconsin
Wisconsin class-action cases operate under both state and federal jurisdictions, with specific procedural requirements that differ from individual litigation. Plaintiffs must meet distinct certification standards and follow established protocols throughout the legal process.
State and Federal Laws
Wisconsin class-action lawsuits follow Federal Rule 23 for cases filed in federal court. This rule requires four key elements: numerosity, commonality, typicality, and adequacy of representation.
State court class actions in Wisconsin operate under Wisconsin Statute 803.08. This statute mirrors federal requirements but allows for some procedural differences in how courts handle certification motions.
Key differences include:
- Federal courts require more stringent proof of commonality
- State courts may allow broader class definitions
- Different notice requirements for class members
- Varying settlement approval processes
Claims administrators must understand which jurisdiction applies to their case. Federal courts typically handle cases involving interstate commerce or federal law violations. Wisconsin class action attorneys often file in state court for consumer protection and contract disputes.
The court must certify the class before proceeding. This certification process examines whether the case meets all statutory requirements and whether class treatment benefits both plaintiffs and the judicial system.
Role of Plaintiffs in Wisconsin Class Actions
Named plaintiffs serve as representatives for the entire class. They must demonstrate they suffered the same harm as other class members and can adequately protect class interests.
Primary plaintiff responsibilities:
- Participate in discovery proceedings
- Review and approve settlement terms
- Attend depositions and court hearings
- Communicate with class counsel regularly
Wisconsin courts require plaintiffs to show they have no conflicts with unnamed class members. They cannot have unique defenses that would make their claims atypical of the broader group.
Class action lawsuit attorneys work closely with named plaintiffs to ensure proper representation. The court monitors this relationship to prevent conflicts of interest that could harm the class.
Class members receive notice of the lawsuit and can opt out if they prefer individual litigation. Those who remain in the class are bound by any final judgment or settlement agreement reached in the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Claims administrators and law firms need specific information about Wisconsin class-action procedures and firm selection criteria. Understanding eligibility requirements, success metrics, and litigation processes helps legal professionals make informed decisions.
What factors should be considered when selecting a class-action law firm in Wisconsin?
Experience in Wisconsin state courts stands as the primary factor for evaluation. Firms must demonstrate familiarity with Wisconsin's class action certification requirements and local judicial procedures.
Resource capacity determines a firm's ability to handle complex litigation. Class action attorneys in Wisconsin require substantial financial backing for expert witnesses, discovery, and extended litigation timelines.
Track record in similar case types provides insight into potential outcomes. Review past settlements, trial verdicts, and case resolution timeframes specific to the relevant practice area.
Attorney credentials and peer recognition offer additional evaluation metrics. Top rated Wisconsin class action lawyers typically maintain strong disciplinary records and professional endorsements.
How can one evaluate the success rate of a class-action law firm in Wisconsin?
Settlement amounts in comparable cases provide concrete performance data. Request specific dollar figures and class size information from previous representations.
Case resolution timeframes indicate efficiency and strategic planning capabilities. Firms should provide average litigation duration and factors affecting case length.
Certification success rates reveal a firm's ability to meet Wisconsin's class requirements. Common questions of law and fact must bind the proposed class under Wisconsin standards.
Client retention and referral patterns demonstrate satisfaction levels. Professional references from other attorneys and repeat clients indicate reliable performance.
Which law firms in Wisconsin are known for their expertise in class-action lawsuits?
Habush Habush & Rottier maintains a dedicated class action practice with extensive Wisconsin experience. The firm handles consumer protection and personal injury class actions throughout the state.
von Briesen & Roper represents both plaintiffs and defendants in class action matters. Their litigation team focuses on commercial disputes and regulatory compliance issues.
Crivello Carlson S.C. concentrates on employment and consumer class actions. The firm has secured significant settlements in wage and hour disputes.
Gimbel Reilly Guerin & Brown LLP handles complex commercial litigation including class actions. Their attorneys represent clients in federal and state court proceedings.
What are the steps involved in initiating a class-action lawsuit in Wisconsin?
Case evaluation begins with determining whether individual claims share common legal or factual issues. Wisconsin requires substantial similarity among class member claims.
Pre-litigation investigation involves gathering evidence and identifying potential class members. Attorneys must establish the scope of alleged harm and defendant conduct patterns.
Filing the initial complaint triggers formal court proceedings. The complaint must include specific allegations supporting class treatment under Wisconsin rules.
Certification motions require detailed proof of class requirements. Requirements for class action lawsuits in Wisconsin include numerosity, commonality, typicality, and adequacy standards.
How does one determine if they are eligible to join a class-action lawsuit in Wisconsin?
Class definitions establish specific eligibility criteria. Review published class notices for geographic, temporal, and transactional requirements that apply to your situation.
Notice requirements ensure proper class member notification. Wisconsin courts mandate adequate notice through mail, publication, or electronic means depending on case circumstances.
Opt-out deadlines create binding participation decisions. Class members must act within specified timeframes to exclude themselves from settlement agreements or judgments.
Damage requirements vary by case type. Some classes require proof of actual financial harm while others permit statutory damages or injunctive relief only.
What are the potential outcomes of a class-action lawsuit represented by a top law firm in Wisconsin?
Settlement agreements resolve most class actions without trial. Negotiated settlements typically provide monetary compensation, policy changes, or product modifications for class members.
Trial verdicts can result in substantial damages or complete defense victories. Wisconsin juries determine liability and damages based on presented evidence and legal instructions.
Attorney fee awards compensate class counsel for successful representation. Courts approve reasonable fee arrangements based on case complexity and results achieved.
Injunctive relief may require defendants to change business practices or implement monitoring systems. These outcomes protect future consumers while addressing past harm.