St. Stephen’s Cemetery $1.25M Class Action Settlement

If you purchased a burial plot or services from St. Stephen’s Cemetery between January 1, 1992, and February 24, 2017, you may be eligible to claim a share of a $1,250,000 settlement from a class action settlement.

St. Stephen’s Cemetery Association has agreed to pay $1,250,000 to settle a class action lawsuit for alleged gross negligence, including losing records of burial locations and improper interment practices.

Who are the class members?

To qualify to submit a claim you must be one of the following:

• Purchased a burial plot and/or services from St. Stephen’s Cemetery between January 1, 1992, and February 24, 2017.
• Be the next of kin or surviving spouse of someone who purchased such services.

How much will class members receive?

Class members must file a claim to receive a pro-rata share of the settlement fund. The amount depends on factors such as the number of graves purchased and the number of relatives buried during the class period. The settlement fund of $1,250,000 will be distributed among valid claimants.

Pro-rata share calculation: The pro-rata share is calculated based on the number of graves purchased and the number of relatives buried. For example, if 1,000 valid claims are submitted, each claimant would receive $1,250 per claim, assuming equal distribution.

How to claim your payment

To claim a payment, you must submit a claim form by the deadline determined at the final approval hearing. You can file a claim online or download the claim form and mail it to the Settlement Administrator at Seaton v. St. Stephen’s Cemetery Settlement Administrator, P.O. Box 301132, Los Angeles, CA 90030-1132. The claim form must be signed with all proper documentation included.

Is proof required to submit a claim?

Yes, claimants need to provide documentation showing their eligibility. This includes:

• Proof of purchase of burial plots or services.
• Documentation if claiming on behalf of a deceased person.

Claim instructions

1. Gather all necessary documentation, including proof of purchase and any relevant records.
2. Complete the claim form with accurate information.
3. Submit the form online or mail it to the Settlement Administrator by the deadline.

Payment methods

Payments will be made by check mailed to the address provided on the claim form or approved claimants may receive a payment selection email.

$1,250,000 Settlement fund

The settlement fund of $1,250,000 will cover:

• Payments to valid claimants.
• Notice and administration costs.
• Service awards to class representatives.
• Attorneys’ fees and costs.

Important dates

• Fairness Hearing: March 24, 2025
• Deadline to File a Claim: To be determined at the final approval hearing.

When is the St. Stephen’s Cemetery Settlement payout date?

The court will decide on the settlement's approval at the Fairness Hearing on March 24, 2025. If approved, payments will follow after the settlement becomes final and any appeals are resolved.

Why is there a class action settlement?

The lawsuit alleges gross negligence by St. Stephen’s Cemetery Association, including losing burial records and improper interment practices. The defendant has denied allegations, however a settlement avoids the costs and risks of a trial and provides compensation to affected individuals.