What Is Cy Pres?
When a class action settles, some funds often go unclaimed. Under California Code of Civil Procedure section 384, courts direct this leftover money — called a cy pres (“see-pray”) award — to nonprofits, including organizations that provide civil legal services to low-income people. It costs you and your clients nothing, and it keeps justice local.
Why CCCJFA?
- Eligible: We’re a 501(c)(3) that funds civil legal services for low-income residents, a category the statute names specifically.
- Local: Every dollar stays in Contra Costa County.
- Aligned: We can direct an award to the program area that best matches your case (housing, consumer, employment, elder law, veterans, and more).
- Accountable: We report on how funds are used, as the court requires.
What Your Award Supports
- Bar Fund grants to local legal aid organizations
- The West County Justice Center, a new legal resource hub at the Richmond Courthouse – in development.
- Pro bono partnerships and community legal education
How to Name CCCJFA
- Propose CCCJFA during settlement negotiations.
- Contact us. We’ll provide a letter describing our work for the court.
- Use our full legal name and EIN in the settlement agreement or proposed order.
- Send us a copy of the approved order.
Sample language:
“Unpaid residue and unclaimed class member funds, plus accrued interest, shall be distributed under Code of Civil Procedure section 384 to Contra Costa County Justice for All (EIN 33-1699455) to support civil legal services for low-income residents of Contra Costa County.“
In federal court, judges generally look for a clear link between the recipient’s work and the class’s interests. We’re happy to help you show it.
For multistate or national cases brought under California law, the court must ensure the distribution provides substantial or commensurate benefit to California consumers.
Let’s Talk!
Jody Iorns
Executive Director
[email protected]
2280 Diamond Blvd., Suite 330
Concord, CA 94520
Thank you for helping make access to justice a right, not a privilege. We can’t wait to partner with you!
This guide is general information, not legal advice.