Bristows partner Sophie Lawrance has been quoted in a recent Law360 UK article examining the Competition Appeal Tribunal’s approval of a landmark “drop hands” settlement in a £482.5 million collective action against Qualcomm.

The article explores the significance of the ruling, which allowed the claim to be withdrawn without any damages being paid to class members, and considers what it means for the future of collective proceedings and settlement approvals in the UK. Lawyers interviewed by Law360 highlighted the tribunal’s rigorous approach to scrutinising settlements and its role in protecting the interests of class members.

Commenting on the decision, Sophie noted that the judgment demonstrates the tribunal’s commitment to acting as a guardian of the collective actions regime. She observed that the tribunal will view it as “very important to scrutinize any settlement” to ensure outcomes are “just and reasonable”.

Sophie also emphasised the tribunal’s pragmatism in assessing the commercial realities underpinning opt-out litigation and suggested that the Qualcomm settlement could ultimately be seen as evidence of the regime working effectively, allowing claims to reach an orderly conclusion when circumstances change.

Read the full article here (subscription required).