Sun Sep 15 11:45:02 UTC 2024: ## Google Averts Jury Trial in Antitrust Case by Paying $2.3 Million
**Washington, D.C. -** In a surprising move, Google has settled a key aspect of the sprawling antitrust lawsuit filed against it by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) and 18 states. The company delivered a cashier’s check for $2,289,751 to the DOJ, effectively eliminating the possibility of a jury trial in the case.
The DOJ accused Google of monopolizing the digital advertising market, using illegal tactics to crush rivals and inflate prices for advertisers. While the case is distinct from the earlier ruling where Google was found guilty of monopolizing search, a potential loss in this trial could have resulted in a forced breakup of the company.
Google, however, argued that the DOJ overestimated its influence in the digital advertising market. Instead of contesting the monetary damages claim in a jury trial, Google opted to pay the full amount, stating that it was more cost-effective than continuing legal battles.
The decision to pay the settlement and avoid a jury trial was strategic. Legal experts noted that public sentiment against large tech companies has reached a peak, making a jury potentially less sympathetic towards Google.
Despite the payment, Google maintains it has not admitted any wrongdoing. The DOJ, however, is unhappy with the settlement, arguing the calculation of damages should be revised. However, US District Judge Leonie Brinkema sided with Google, upholding the payment and declaring that the case would proceed as a bench trial, with her making the final decisions on the facts and law.
The upcoming bench trial will focus on the remaining counts of the lawsuit, which primarily concern Google’s advertising practices. Both the DOJ and Google are confident in their arguments, and the trial is expected to be a closely watched battle between legal giants.
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