On Tuesday Apple had its case heard before the Second US Circuit Court of Appeals in New York, NY to cease e-book antitrust monitor Michael Bromwich’s efforts permanently, reports “electronista” (http://tinyurl.com/kbvm65d).
The Cupertino-based company argues that Bromwich’s efforts are excessive, the man lacks the knowledge to properly oversee Apple, and fees and duties for the monitoring in addition to any court-ordered payments would cost millions of dollars, all of which will cause irreparable harm to Apple’s business and relationships. In its court filings, Apple noted that Bromwich required a second lawyer with actual experience in antitrust issues at US$1,025 per hour to assist him.
Bromwich demanded an $1,100 per hour rate for himself in addition to a 15% administrative fee to his consulting firm. During his first two weeks on the case, Bromwich billed Apple over $138,000.