An August 2026 trial could greatly impact how Meta designs and markets its social media platforms. As Marlo Greer notes in her video on this topic, a jury trial highlights Meta’s potential liability and the product changes it may have to make
This case is one brought by the state of California and a number of other states. It accuses Meta of designing Facebook and Instagram to increase its profits – while addicting users, particularly children. The lawsuit also accuses Meta of misleading the public about the risks of social media addiction.
Meta recently tried to get the case dismissed. The judge rejected Meta’s attempt. The case is currently scheduled for an August 2026 trial in federal court in California.
Why the Meta Trial is Important
As Marlo points out, lawsuits like this one may force Meta to make significant changes in the way its social media products are designed. Parents fighting to limit “screen time” know how difficult it is to keep children off social media.
The California lawsuit, along with a number of other lawsuits, argues that this is by design. They say that Meta designed its products to become addictive. They argue Meta knew its products appealed to children but did little to prevent them from becoming addicted. Along with that addiction comes a number of mental health issues – issues that have led some children to suicide.
Other Cases Have Found Meta Liable
A New Mexico jury recently found Meta liable for $375 million in damages for misleading the public on safety and letting abusers contact children. A judge is currently deciding whether to order Meta to change its operations to protect younger users.
An earlier case in California found Meta and YouTube liable for a young user’s social media addiction and awarded her $6 million in damages. And there are thousands of other cases pending in courts across the country that allege similar wrongs by Meta and other social media companies.
Given these successful cases, Meta and other platforms will likely be forced to change how they operate. These cases aim to make Meta’s products less addictive, harder for children to use, and safer from potential abusers.
If Social Media has harmed you, Greer Law Can Help
At Greer Law, we go to bat for those who are harmed because of the negligent or intentional actions of others. That includes people who suffer because a product is defective or badly designed. When a company knowingly ignores a product defect that harms people, we are driven to help our clients.
If you or your child has been harmed because of a social media addiction, contact us. We are ready to help you get the compensation you are entitled to. To schedule a free case evaluation, call us at 303-331-6460 or reach out to us online.
