Meta Civil Trial Deliberations Begin Over New Mexico Unfair Practices Act
What happened
Jurors in a civil trial in Santa Fe began deliberations on September 23, 2026, to examine whether Meta violated New Mexico law by allegedly lying to its users. The lawsuit, which was filed in 2021, is the second trial this year involving the social media giant in the state. Judge Francis Mathew noted that the trial proceeded faster than anticipated.
Why it matters
If the jury determines that Meta broke the state Unfair Practices Act, Judge Francis Mathew could impose penalties of up to $5,000 per violation. This follows an earlier ruling this year where a Santa Fe jury found Meta liable for harming the state’s children, potentially leading to $1 billion in civil fines and abatement costs if upheld on appeal.
A lawsuit is currently pending in the Santa Fe district of New Mexico.
Who's involved
- MetaDefendant in the civil trial regarding the Unfair Practices Act
- New MexicoState where the lawsuit and trial are taking place
- Santa FeCity in New Mexico where the trial is being held
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- MetaSpeculative
Meta could face significant costs and regulatory action if the jury finds it violated the state's Unfair Practices Act.
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The entities involved
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New Mexico
state of the United States of America
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Santa Fe
capital city of New Mexico, United States
Related events
- Meta faced civil suits in New Mexico and Los Angeles, with a federal court battle set to open in Oakland.
- Meta faced a jury verdict and legal protections in New Mexico, resulting in a win for Raúl Torrez's office.
- A lawsuit was filed in New Mexico on September 8, 2026, concerning data usage and the Unfair Practices Act against Meta.
- A lawsuit was filed in Santa Fe on August 1, 2026, where the Forward Party is challenging state signature requirements in federal court.
- Both Discord and Meta face legal scrutiny over liability following court orders issued by a New Mexico court.