The cy pres doctrine allows for the distribution of unclaimed or non-distributable portions of class-action settlements to organizations or causes that indirectly benefit the plaintiff class. It is appropriate when direct compensation to class members is impractical or impossible, and the alternative distribution can be seen as consistent with the interests and intent of the plaintiff class.
For example: In a case involving privacy violations by a tech company, undistributed funds from the settlement could be directed to a nonprofit that works on enhancing digital privacy rights, aligning with the underlying concerns of the affected class members.