Frequently asked questions
TOPICS
- General FAQ
What is this case about?
This is a case about data privacy. We allege that Mercari is violating the privacy of buyers and sellers who use its online marketplace by collecting data (i.e., biometric data). Mercari asks them to verify their identities by uploading photos of themselves and their government issued ID without first notifying its users and obtaining written consent. The biometric data that we allege Mercari is collecting is in the form of face scans, which are unique to individuals – no two individuals have the same one. Because this data is so unique, there are heightened protections around it. We believe that Mercari has ignored the protections implemented by Illinois lawmakers through its collection of users’ biometric data without first notifying its’ users and obtaining written consent, which we intend to prove in arbitration.
What is arbitration?
Arbitration means that instead of having your claim or dispute heard by a judge or jury in court, it will be decided by a neutral arbitrator in a private forum. Arbitration is something the parties agree to, usually as part of a contract that they enter into at the beginning of their relationship. Many companies have arbitration provisions in contracts that they enter into with individual consumers, employees, small businesses, or investors. Arbitration is sometimes called “alternative dispute resolution,” “ADR,” or “private dispute resolution.”
Am I signing up for a class action?
No, this is not a class action lawsuit. Your individual arbitration claim will be decided on its own facts, which is why we ask for more information than is normally required when signing up for a class action settlement.
Once I sign up, how does the process work?
Once you sign up, you’ll be asked to sign our attorney-client agreement. That allows us to investigate your private arbitration claim. Then, log in to your secure client portal. All information is strictly privileged and confidential and will only be used for your claim. Answer a few more questions, upload a few documents, and we’ll take it from there. We’ll analyze your claim and your losses, negotiate with the company, and, if necessary, pursue your claim in arbitration.
How do your fees work?
Our fees will be a percentage of the settlement or recovery we obtain for you. That amount will depend on the rules in the state you live in. We only receive a fee if you win, and you will never owe us any money.