On July 17, 2025, the Court in the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit certified a class of approximately 140 former members of Eagle Brook Country Club who joined between 1992 and June of 1995 and signed “Conversion Agreements” when the club was sold to the Walters Group on or about June 28, 1995.
This class action lawsuit centered on whether members are entitled to repayment of the Amounts Previously Paid as part of their membership fees. While Eagle Brook agreed that members are entitled to repayment of the Deferred Amount thirty years after payment, it contested any obligation to repay the Amounts Previously Paid.
Two former members brought a class action on behalf of themselves and similarly situated individuals, asserting the full return of the Amount Previously Paid. After over two years of litigation, including appellate proceedings, the parties have reached a settlement that has received preliminary approval from the Court.
Settlement Summary
- Settlement Fund: $725,315
- Payout: Each eligible class member who submits a valid claim will receive 70% of the Amount Previously Paid, less attorney fees, administrative costs, and incentive awards.
If you’re a class member or believe you may be affected, we encourage you to review the official case documents below. These provide complete details about the claims process, deadlines, and legal background.
If you still have questions after reviewing the documents, please contact Class Counsel:
Matthew J. Herman
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 630-232-6333
Legal Rights and Options in This Settlement
If you are one of the 140 class members or were affected, you have legal rights and may be entitled to a monetary award. Below, we list the options available to you:
| Option | What It Means | Deadline |
| 1. Submit a Claim Form | Apply to receive a monetary award by submitting a Claim Form. If approved by the Court, you will be bound by the terms of the Settlement Agreement, including the release of claims. | January 14, 2026 |
| 2. Ask to Be Excluded (“Opt Out”) | Remove yourself from the Class by submitting a Request for Exclusion Form. If you opt out, you won’t receive payment from this settlement, but you’ll keep the right to bring your own claim against the Defendant regarding the “Amount Previously Paid” as specified in your Conversion Agreement. | December 15, 2025 |
| 3. Object to the Settlement | File a written objection if you disagree with the terms of the Settlement. The Court will consider and rule on your objection. You may still file a claim to receive compensation. Unless you opt out, you’ll still be bound by the Settlement if it’s approved. | December 15, 2025 |
| 4. Do Nothing | You won’t receive a monetary award but will still be bound by the terms of the Settlement Agreement if approved by the Court. | — |
Important Documents
- First Amended Complaint
- Appellate Decision
- Settlement Agreement
- Preliminary Approval Order
- Notice Form
- Claim Form
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is included in the class?
Anyone who joined Eagle Brook Country Club between 1992 and June 1995 and signed a “Conversion Agreement” when the club was sold to the Walters Group in 1995.
What am I entitled to under the settlement?
If you’re a class member and submit a valid claim, you will receive 70% of the Amount Previously Paid, minus attorney fees, administrative costs, and incentive awards.
What is the “Amount Previously Paid”?
This refers to the portion of your membership fee paid before the construction of the clubhouse. The exact amount you paid can be found in your original Conversion Agreement.
What are my options in this class action settlement?
You have four choices:
- Submit a Claim Form by January 14, 2026 – To receive a monetary award from the settlement fund.
- Opt Out by December 15, 2025 – If you don’t want to be part of the settlement and want to keep your right to pursue your own claim.
- Object by December 15, 2025 – If you disagree with any part of the settlement, you may file a written objection.
- Do Nothing – You won’t receive a payment but will still be legally bound by the settlement’s terms.
Do I need to do anything to receive a payment?
Yes. You must complete and submit the Claim Form before the deadline of January 14, 2026.
What if I’m unsure whether I’m a class member?
If you believe you may be a member of the class but are unsure, please contact Class Counsel, Matthew J. Herman, at [email protected] or 630-232-6333.