Microsoft Again Seeks Delay in Antitrust Case

Microsoft Corp. fired back at the Justice Department, reiterating its request that a federal appeals court in Washington delay the antitrust case until the U.S. Supreme Court decides whether to hear an appeal. Noting that the high court probably will announce a decision within the next six weeks, Microsoft argued that the delay would have little impact on the long-running case.

Government attorneys are opposed to any delays, saying they are eager to return to a lower court to devise the appropriate punishment for Microsoft. Critics accused the Redmond, Wash.-based software giant of using delaying tactics. Earlier this month, Microsoft said it will seek a new trial, insisting that the previous judge’s ruling should be thrown out because he held secret meetings with reporters. On June 28, a federal appeals court in Washington upheld much of the judge’s decision, ruling that Microsoft violated antitrust laws.