Canadian Electronics class action Settlement: What You Need to Know to Claim Your Share

If you’ve purchased electronic devices like computers, smartphones, or game consoles in Canada, you might be eligible for compensation from recently proposed class-action settlements related to price fixing. These settlements address allegations involving linear resistors, a small but essential component used in many electronic devices.

What Are Linear Resistors and Why Are They Important?

Linear resistors control the flow of electric current in a circuit. They are commonly found in PCs, cellphones, home appliances, game consoles, and televisions. The alleged price fixing of these components has led to legal actions resulting in settlements that could benefit consumers.

Details of the Settlement

Two settlements have been reached with companies accused of involvement in price fixing:

• Susumu Co., Ltd. and Susumu International (USA) Inc.: $90,000 settlement.
• KOA Corporation and KOA Speer Electronics, Inc.: $3.3 million settlement.

Despite these settlements, both companies deny any wrongdoing or liability.

Who Is Eligible to Claim Compensation?

You may be included in the settlement class if:

• You purchased linear resistors or devices containing them between July 19, 2003, and September 14, 2015.

However, before compensation is distributed, courts in Ontario, British Columbia, and Québec must approve the settlements.

Court Approval Schedule

Approval hearings for the settlements are scheduled as follows:

• Ontario: February 26, 2025.
• British Columbia (KOA only): March 11, 2025.
• Québec: April 8, 2025.

During these hearings, the courts will determine if the settlement agreements are fair, reasonable, and in the best interest of those affected.

What Happens After Court Approval?

Once the settlements receive court approval:

1. Funds Management: Settlement money will be held in an interest-bearing trust account.
   • Legal fees, court costs, and applicable taxes will be deducted from this amount.
   • The remaining funds will be distributed to eligible claimants.
2. Claims Process: Details on how to file a claim will be provided by Foreman & Company, the law firm managing the case. This will include:
   • Eligibility Criteria: Who qualifies to submit a claim.
   • Evaluation Process: How claims will be assessed.
   • Deadlines: Important dates for submitting claims.

How to Prepare for Your Claim

To ensure you’re ready to file a claim if the settlements are approved:

1. Keep Purchase Records: Documentation such as receipts or proof of purchase can strengthen your claim.
2. Follow Updates: Stay informed through announcements from Foreman & Company.

This case is significant because it highlights the impact of alleged anti-competitive practices on consumers. By holding companies accountable, such settlements aim to deter future price-fixing behavior and compensate those affected.

Conclusion

If you bought electronic devices during the specified period, this settlement could be an opportunity to claim compensation. Keep an eye on court decisions and be prepared to submit your claim once the process is announced.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.