Court Denies Social Media Companies’ Appeal in Youth Addiction Case

We are happy to share that a group of appellate judges in California has rejected an appeal from social media companies trying to avoid trials over youth social media addiction claims. On December 6, the Second Appellate District reviewed the briefs from both sides and denied the petition from Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube.

Algorithms Designed To Hook Young Users

In October 2023, a trial court in Los Angeles ruled that the plaintiffs’ claims of negligence and fraud against these social media companies could move forward. Judge Carolyn Kuhl stated that the plaintiffs argued the companies’ algorithms and features were designed to increase the frequency and intensity of social media use, which was both foreseeable and intended. The plaintiffs also claimed that the companies knew from their own research and medical studies that this intense use could harm young users’ health.

Appeal & Arguments

The social media companies wanted the appellate court to review Judge Kuhl’s decision, arguing that the claims were blocked by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act or the First Amendment. They emphasized the high stakes and significant legal issues involved, urging the court to step in before the case went to trial.

Court Decision

However, the appellate court denied their petition, bringing the plaintiffs closer to trials where they aim to hold the tech giants responsible for the mental and physical harm caused by social media addiction. The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for various health issues, including addiction, depression, anxiety, insomnia, eating disorders, self-harm, and suicide. The first trials are expected to start in late 2025.

The Social Media Judicial Council Coordinated Proceedings (JCCP) in Los Angeles is the largest personal injury litigation against tech giants in the country, with over 1,900 cases from 44 states. The plaintiffs are represented by a team of lawyers from Beasley Allen, Morgan & Morgan, Kiesel Law, Lanier Law Firm, and Panish Shea Ravipudi.