Yes, I want legal advice, damnit!

Factual Questions
1

Or, at least, legal information.

I got a letter today–not certified or registered or anything–from Rust Consulting, Inc. of Minneapolis, MN. Blazoned across the front is This is not a solicitation from a lawyer. A federal Court has authorized this Notice.

It’s a class-action settlement notice against a former employer of mine. Until I got the letter, I had no idea that such a thing was in progress. The letter describes various scenarios and expected payment amounts (less than 50 bucks.)

Evidently, I’m included as a participant in the settlement if I do nothing, which is exactly what I’m currently inclined to do. But that’s not what I need advice on.

I’m wondering about Rust Consulting. They describe themselves as “the leader in class action settlement”, and that gives me pause. Has anyone here had any dealings with them? Are they legit? Are they ethical? It doesn’t seem to be a scam, but I guess it could be. I’m just not really interested in dealing with ambulance chasers, if that is actually the case here.

2

Well, first of all, this isn’t legal advice, but Rust Consulting isn’t a law firm. It’s a claims administrator, which means that law firms that are involved in class action suits hire them to process the claims and handle the administrative work. When a settlement plan is worked out, Rust Consulting will administer it. They’ll hold the money, keep the database of class members, and send out the checks and things.

3

Ah, so they’re not even the lawyers in the case. Thanks, that clears things up a bit.