Court hears arguments on Microsoft deal
C|Net | at | by Mike
Lawyers representing more than 100 civil cases pending against Microsoft defended the legitimacy of a controversial settlement in federal court Tuesday. Microsoft and plaintiff attorneys cut the deal last week, agreeing to set up a private foundation to aid needy schools and donate an estimated $1 billion in cash, software, services and training over five years. Microsoft also would provide Windows licenses for refurbished computers donated to the schools.
Most of the cases, which allege Microsoft overcharged consumers for Windows, were brought last year after a federal judge ruled Microsoft violated the 1890 Sherman Antitrust Act. In June, a panel of seven appeals judges largely upheld the antitrust ruling against Microsoft.