Proposed Settlement for SharpSpring Shareholders
In a significant development for stockholders of SharpSpring, Inc., Kahn Swick & Foti LLC and Monteverde & Associates PC have announced a proposed settlement concerning class action lawsuits. This legal action pertains to all individuals who held common stock in SharpSpring during a specified period and seeks to address concerns surrounding the company's acquisition by Constant Contact Inc.
Background of the Lawsuit
The class actions highlighted in the notice stem from two pivotal cases: Loren Trent Hightower v. Richard Carlson et al. in Delaware and Bradford Morse v. SharpSpring, Inc. within the Federal District Court of Florida. These lawsuits arose following the approval of the acquisition by SharpSpring's former Board of Directors on June 21, 2021, and the subsequent completion of the merger on September 1, 2021.
This action aims to form a resolution that acknowledges the rights and claims of stockholders who owned shares during the critical acquisition period and any subsequent holders through September 1, 2021. Should the court find the settlement acceptable, it will provide clarity and closure for all parties involved.
Details of the Settlement Hearing
The court hearing to determine the appropriateness of the proposed settlement is scheduled for June 13, 2025. This critical session will address whether the Delaware action should be classified as a non-opt-out class action, finalizing the class certification process. Additionally, it will assess whether the terms of the settlement proposed by the plaintiffs are fair and reasonable for class members.
During this hearing, several aspects will be evaluated:
- - The appointment of Loren Trent Hightower as Class Representative.
- - The performance of Kahn Swick & Foti LLC as Class Counsel.
- - The adequacy of the settlement terms and the overall approach to allocating the net settlement fund.
- - Any objections from class members and whether they merit consideration.
Stockholders who have held SharpSpring shares during the defined period are urged to pay close attention to these proceedings, as their rights may be impacted by the outcome of this settlement.
Implications for Class Members
For shareholders, the implications of this proposed settlement are notably important. If you owned SharpSpring common stock between June 21, 2021, and September 1, 2021, your claims associated with your stock ownership could be affected. It is advised that any stockholders who have not yet received a more comprehensive Notice of Pendency should contact the claims administrator directly to obtain the necessary documentation.
In particular, any individual who wishes to object to the settlement must provide a written objection to the court by May 30, 2025, to ensure their voice is heard during the proceedings. This objection must include notable details such as the case name, personal identification details, and a thorough explanation of the concerns raised by the objector.
Next Steps for Investors
Those involved must remain vigilant to ensure that their interests are adequately represented. Shareholders can stay informed by monitoring updates about the class action and ensuring that they are engaged in the process leading up to the settlement hearing.
Understanding the legal intricacies and remaining proactive about these developments ensures that shareholders of SharpSpring, Inc. are poised to navigate the upcoming changes effectively. For further information or assistance, stakeholders can reach out to Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC, who represent the interests of the shareholders in this matter.