Juries Fill Social Media Policy Void

Bloomberg Law covers the Los Angeles social media addiction trial against Instagram and others.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Bloomberg Law is reporting on a high-profile trial in Los Angeles against social media companies like Instagram for their alleged role in youth social media addiction. The article suggests this trial is part of a broader trend where juries are stepping in to regulate industries when legislators hesitate, especially when it comes to issues impacting children.

Why it matters

This trial highlights how juries can function as de facto regulators, shaping industry practices and product liability laws when lawmakers fail to act on emerging societal concerns, such as the mental health impacts of social media on young users.

The details

The article notes that similar trends have occurred previously, such as with tobacco litigation reshaping marketing practices and firearm suits impacting product liability law. Now, the same dynamic is playing out with youth social media use, as the Los Angeles trial against Instagram and other platforms illustrates.

  • The Los Angeles social media addiction trial is currently underway.

The players

Justin Daniels

An attorney at Baker Donelson who was quoted in the Bloomberg Law article discussing how juries can function as regulators when legislatures hesitate.

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What they’re saying

“This often happens 'when legislatures hesitate and public concern reaches a fever pitch,' especially when it comes to children.”

— Justin Daniels, Attorney, Baker Donelson (Bloomberg Law)

The takeaway

This trial highlights how the judicial system, through juries, can step in to shape industry practices and regulations when lawmakers fail to address emerging societal concerns, particularly those involving the wellbeing of young people.