The 2026 Carlton Fields Class Action Survey reveals that class actions continue to grow in both frequency and complexity, with companies expecting a notable increase in new filings in the year ahead. Rising costs, increasingly aggressive plaintiffs, and emerging risks related to labor, consumer fraud, and data privacy are shaping the corporate class action landscape.

Corporate legal teams are navigating a challenging environment, where caseloads are larger, claims more complex, and settlements harder to achieve. At the same time, companies are adapting through early case assessment, strategic use of trusted outside counsel, and proactive risk management to mitigate exposure and control costs.

Now in its 15th year, the Carlton Fields Class Action Survey provides a long-term perspective on trends, risks, and best practices in managing class action litigation. This year’s report draws on interviews with more than 300 general counsel and senior legal officers from Fortune 1000 and other large companies across a wide range of industries, including financial services, healthcare, technology, insurance, manufacturing, and consumer goods. In-depth conversations with corporate counsel provide unique insights into the strategies and approaches shaping how companies respond to class action risk.

Download the 2026 Carlton Fields Class Action Survey to explore historical benchmarks, current trends, and practical guidance for managing class action exposure.