Meta is gearing up for a significant trial starting this week, following two previous legal setbacks related to child safety on its platforms this year. Jury selection has been completed in Oakland, California, for the federal trial overseen by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzales Rogers. Although an eight-person jury will provide recommendations, the final decision rests with Judge Rogers alone.

The trial, anticipated to span at least six weeks, may involve testimonies from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri. The litigation stems from states’ allegations, filed nearly three years ago, asserting that Meta violated federal laws by collecting data from users under 13 without parental consent. The lawsuit further accuses Meta of concealing the harmful and addictive nature of its platforms for young users, while profiting from data collection and targeted advertising.

The initial trial involves four states – California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey – with the potential for additional trials in other states. The outcome could influence Meta’s approach to future litigation with other states. Legal experts suggest that the requested financial damages of up to $1.4 trillion by Meta are unlikely, as such an amount could cripple the company financially.

Meta refutes the allegations and emphasizes its commitment to youth safety, highlighting new safety measures introduced since the lawsuit’s initiation. The company faces legal challenges in various jurisdictions, including recent rulings in New Mexico, where it was ordered to pay substantial penalties for platform-related harms to young people. Additionally, Meta is embroiled in legal battles in Tennessee and Canada over similar issues affecting young users.

The trial’s outcome holds significant implications for Meta’s future legal landscape and its approach to platform safety measures for young users.