CA AB2588

Repeals existing class action provisions in Civil Code Section 1781 and Code of Civil Procedure Section 382 and establishes comprehensive class action procedures modeled on Federal Rule 23.

Requires four prerequisites for class certification: numerosity, commonality of legal or factual questions, typicality of representative claims, and fair and adequate representation of class interests.

Establishes that class actions may be maintained only when prerequisites are met and one of three conditions applies: risk of inconsistent adjudications, defendant acted on grounds applicable to the class, or common questions predominate with superior adjudication method.

Requires courts to certify class actions by written order defining the class and appointing class counsel based on experience, qualifications, and ability to represent class interests fairly and adequately.

Provides procedures for class member notification, opt-out rights, settlement approval requiring court finding of fairness and reasonableness, and allows courts to award reasonable attorney's fees and costs.