CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) --
Clients assert that proposed allocation of settlement funds is
improperly weighted to non-vegetarian groups
Michael B. Hyman, principal with Chicago law firm Much Shelist Freed Denenberg Ament & Rubenstein, P.C., announced today that he has successfully intervened in a proposed settlement with McDonald's corporation on behalf of a group of prominent members of the vegetarian community. At issue is the proposed allocation of $6 million in funds to be directed to vegetarian organizations. The funds are the result of a proposed settlement in a class action suit filed against fast food giant McDonald's practice in using beef products in the preparation of its french fries and hash browns.
The objectors assert that the $6 million distribution, as proposed, violates the terms of the settlement agreement by improperly directing funds to non-vegetarian groups, groups hostile to vegetarianism and groups in limited size and geographical reach.
"This proposed distribution violates not just the letter, but the spirit of the settlement agreement," Hyman said.
Specifically, the proposed settlement disbursements are directed at twelve organizations. Of the twelve, Hyman and the objectors argue that seven are clearly not vegetarian organizations. Moreover, an eighth, the Vegetarian Resource Group, earmarked for $1.4 million or 23% of the settlement dollars, originally opposed the lawsuit.
The court has set February 25 to specifically rule on the proposed distribution plan.
Hyman concluded by saying, "this settlement should promote the values of the vegetarian community, but as proposed, it is far from achieving its purpose."
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. He can be contacted at 312.521.2444 or by e-mail at mbhyman@muchshelist.com