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J.R. Howell: The Elite Litigator Driving Multi-Million Dollar Class Actions

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USA News April 25, 2025
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J.R. Howell: The Elite Litigator Driving Multi-Million Dollar Class Actions
NATIONWIDE - APRIL 2025 - (USAnews.com) - J.R. Howell, a distinguished attorney with a reputation for taking on high-stakes, precedent-setting litigation, is making waves once again as the driving force behind a groundbreaking class action lawsuit against Lendistry. As the founder and principal attorney at The Law Office of J.R. Howell, he is known for his unwavering commitment to protecting individuals' rights, particularly in the realm of data privacy, human rights, and corporate accountability. His strategic approach to complex litigation has earned him national recognition, particularly in the high-profile class actions he has spearheaded, including his recent success with Peloton, and his current pursuit of justice against Lendistry. The lawsuit against Lendistry, filed in federal court in Los Angeles, marks a significant moment in the battle for privacy rights in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced machine learning. The case stems from Lendistry's administration of COVID-19 relief grants on behalf of the California Governor’s Office. The lawsuit alleges that Lendistry improperly handled sensitive personal and business data by using AI technologies to harvest and share confidential information with third parties without consent. Among the most alarming accusations is that Lendistry’s actions, which included using fintech partnerships to access users' bank accounts, violated state privacy laws and breached public trust. The firm’s involvement in this case follows the discovery of similar privacy issues while representing clients in a class action lawsuit against Peloton, where the use of AI technologies also played a central role. J.R. Howell’s involvement in the Lendistry case highlights his expertise in managing complex, cutting-edge legal battles at the intersection of privacy rights and technology. This particular lawsuit, which centers on Lendistry’s mishandling of over $300 million in taxpayer funds, underscores Howell’s capacity to lead litigation that challenges powerful institutions and addresses emerging issues in technology. The case is especially significant given the rapid evolution of AI and machine learning systems, technologies that have far outpaced existing privacy laws. Reflecting on the case, Howell stated, "Lendistry has exploited thousands of Californians in its mishandling of taxpayer funds. We hope to shine a light on this extraordinary breach of privacy and public trust and bring scrutiny to Governor Newsom and the private contractors his office has paid millions of dollars to. They have violated state privacy law and delivered shoddy services to the public."
The significance of this case extends beyond the parties involved. It highlights a critical gap in data privacy regulations, particularly in how AI technologies are used to process personal and sensitive information. As the use of AI and machine learning grows in every sector, the public and businesses alike are left to navigate an uncertain legal landscape. With the federal government scaling back its enforcement of privacy laws and significant pushback against comprehensive AI safety regulations, this class action lawsuit against Lendistry is poised to set a legal precedent for how these technologies should be regulated. Howell’s leadership in this case, and his previous victories, illustrate his influence in shaping the future of law in the digital age. His legal strategy is focused not just on winning cases, but on achieving systemic change, and his work addresses the broader implications of how technology affects the lives and rights of individuals. His reputation as a fierce advocate for justice is exemplified in his ongoing efforts to hold corporations accountable for their actions, as well as his work in international human rights and social justice initiatives. One of Howell’s most notable recent achievements is securing a $2.5 million nationwide class action settlement against Peloton, a case in which he took on the company’s mishandling of user data and its failure to adequately protect consumers’ personal information. His involvement in this case, and his growing portfolio of high-profile class actions, underscore his role as a leading litigator in data privacy law, AI ethics, and human rights advocacy. As a lawyer, Howell is not only known for his litigation skills but also for his ability to bridge the gap between law, media, and public influence. Through his documentary work, Howell shines a light on crucial social issues, including the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples, a cause close to his heart. His current project, a documentary on the MMIWG2s+ movement, is focused on advocating for meaningful reconciliation and social change. His work behind the camera, combined with his strategic litigation, makes him a unique figure in the legal community, positioning him as a thought leader and advocate for global human rights. In an era where the influence of technology companies grows daily, Howell’s commitment to advancing privacy rights through his legal work and public advocacy is more important than ever. His current efforts with the Lendistry case and his previous work on groundbreaking class action lawsuits demonstrate a relentless pursuit of justice for those whose rights are threatened by powerful corporations. As the Lendistry case progresses, Howell and his team remain focused on the broader implications for privacy law. "The use of AI and machine learning technologies has outpaced the regulations governing them. It’s time for courts to step in and set clear boundaries," Howell explained. With his track record of success in complex litigation, J.R. Howell is poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of data privacy law and AI regulation. For more information on J.R. Howell and his legal practice, please visit The Law Office of J.R. Howell. Follow J.R. Howell on social media:
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