Lead plaintiff
In a class action, the lead plaintiff is the named individual who files the suit on behalf of all the claimants[1].
Selection
The lead plaintiff must be typical of the group they are representing, so they must also be personally affected by the issue the lawsuit is adressing. They will also be expected to be capable of handling the legal work involved.[1][2]
Responsibilities
The lead plaintiff's role is significantly more active and involved than the other members of the "class" (the claimants), as the lead plaintiff must attend hearings and strategy sessions, in addition to consulting with lawyers and expert witnesses[1].
In addition, the lead plaintiff must review any settlement offered by the defendant and decide whether to accept or proceed to court.
Compensation
To compensate them for the inconveniences and work involved, the court will award the lead plaintiff some amount of compensation if the case is successful.[1]