From the Dark Side--DOJ Final Brief

in the penalty phase of Microsoft's antitrust trial did not change from recommending a breakup into two companies despite Judge Jackson's request that the government look at two friend of the court briefs recommending a three-way split. Minor modifications included allowing M$ co-founder Paul Allen to have stock in both companies as long as he has no position other than investor with either. Here is this morning's Washington Post article and a Netscape News article. Microsoft has 48 hours to respond and then Judge Jackson will issue his penalty finding, ending the case at the US District Court level. Judge Jackson may expedite the appeal process directly to the Supreme Court as provided for in antitrust law. Doing so will keep Microsoft from dragging things out for a year or more at the Appeals Court level. [Dana Baggett]