Averting November trial, Meta settles lawsuit alleging social media addictive effects
Meta resolves claims before trial
Meta settled a lawsuit alleging social media addiction, resolving claims against the company before the case was due to go to trial next month, according to a lawyer representing one plaintiff. The plaintiffs say social media platforms contributed to their mental health struggles. The settlement concerns Meta; the complaint against Snap is proceeding.
Claims against Snap continue
Joseph VanZandt, an attorney at Beasley Allen representing S.J., said the plaintiffs would continue their case against Snap. VanZandt said plaintiffs allege that Snap designed Snapchat features—including Snapstreaks, Snapscores, push notifications and filters—to increase young users’ time on the app. They claim compulsive use contributed to serious mental and physical health injuries, including depression, anxiety, an eating disorder and self-harm.
Los Angeles trial schedule
Jury selection began this week in Los Angeles. Opening statements are expected in early November, and the plaintiffs’ lawyers expect the trial to continue into mid-December. A statement said trials, dismissals and settlements are common during the bellwether process. The speaker was not identified in the provided account.
Key points
- Meta settled claims before a trial scheduled for next month.
- The plaintiffs’ complaint against Snap will continue.
- Jury selection began in Los Angeles, with opening statements expected in early November.
- The plaintiffs’ lawyers expect the trial to last into mid-December.