CHICAGO, March 26, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- In a partial ruling yesterday, Judge Richard Siebel awarded 23 organizations a total of $8.6 million and class counsel slightly more than $2 million in fees and costs in a settlement between McDonald's and the vegetarian community. The remaining $1.4 million is to be re-allocated by mid-May. Reacting to the ruling, Michael B. Hyman, principal with Chicago law firm Much Shelist stated "we still have a 'beef'." Hyman is weighing options for a group of prominent members of the vegetarian community who object to portions of the proposed distribution as violating the terms of the settlement agreement.
The suit against fast food giant McDonald's attacked its disclosure practices regarding the use of beef by-products in the preparation of its french fries and hash browns.
The objectors assert that the distribution improperly directs funds to non-vegetarian groups, groups hostile to vegetarianism and groups in limited size and geographical reach.
"We're currently weighing our options," Hyman said. "The vegetarian community has been closely following this case and we want to make sure that appropriate organizations receive the cy pres funds."
About Much Shelist and Michael B. Hyman
Much Shelist is a Chicago law firm of 90 lawyers established in 1970 with a national business and litigation practice. Michael B. Hyman, a principal in the firm, has a practice that concentrates in contingent matters and consumer, antitrust and securities litigation. On behalf of consumers, the firm has litigated high-profile class actions involving infant formula, frequent flyer miles, auto repairs, tires, seatbelts, tax-preparation services, billing for medical testing, drought insurance, and telephone services, among others. Mr. Hyman is one of the foremost class action practitioners in the United States and has been one of the lead attorneys in lawsuits against State Farm Insurance, H.& R. Block, American Airlines, and Prudential Insurance.