#United States #Class Action #Los Angeles #COVID-19 #Equinox

Overview of the Class Action Lawsuit Against Equinox

On June 2, 2025, Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman PLLC and Sommers Schwartz P.C. announced significant developments regarding a proposed class action lawsuit that may impact members of Equinox gym in California. This action is particularly crucial for individuals who held memberships during the COVID-19 pandemic, when gym operations were affected by government-imposed lockdowns.

Background of the Case

The case, filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California under Rothman v. Equinox Holdings, Inc., Case No. 220-cv-09760-CAS-MBK, centers around allegations that Equinox improperly retained prepaid membership dues during the periods when their gyms were mandated to close due to the pandemic. Plaintiff Jason Rothman argues that he and other members are entitled to refunds since they continued to pay for services that could not be rendered. Equinox Holdings, Inc. has vehemently denied these allegations, claiming all dues were processed lawfully.

The certification of this class action indicates that the court recognizes the potential of the claims raised and has authorized notification to the affected parties. This legal recognition is crucial for the members who wish to understand their rights and potential recourse as the case progresses.

Who is Affected?

The class action specifically includes all Equinox members whose primary club is located in California and who were subjected to the terms of the 'Refund Clause' outlined in their Membership Agreements. This Refund Clause indicates that while the gym is legally liable for refunds if closed, it warns members that they may risk losing their prepaid funds if the club cannot fulfill its financial obligations. Consequently, many individuals may find themselves questioning the integrity of their agreements with Equinox.

What Are Your Options?

For those who fit the criteria for class membership, there are several pathways available moving forward:
1. Participate in the Class Action: By not opting out, members will remain part of the class and may be eligible for any future financial recoveries or benefits should the court rule in favor of the plaintiffs.
2. Opt Out of the Class: Members who wish to pursue individual claims against Equinox can request exclusion from the class action. This option safeguards their right to pursue justice independently if they believe they have a strong case.

If individuals choose to opt out, they must send a formal request by August 1, 2025, providing their personal information, including name and address. Instructions for doing so are available on the official case website.

Legal Representation

Class Counsel, appointed by the Court, comprises attorneys Trenton Kashima and John Nelson from Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman PLLC and Jason Thompson from Sommers Schwartz P.C. Members do not need to incur legal fees to be represented in this case, although they have the option to hire their own counsel if preferred.

Next Steps

While the case is progressing through the judicial system, the Court has yet to determine the validity of the claims against Equinox or schedule a trial date. Members are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing developments and court filings through the official class action website and are cautioned against contacting the courthouse for inquiries.

This class action represents a critical juncture for many Equinox gym members who experienced disruptions in service during an unprecedented global pandemic. Staying informed and understanding one’s rights in this context will be key as the case unfolds in court.