These statistics, however, tend to be misleading, as the settlement rate in the Eastern District of Texas is high. This is due in part to the mandatory mediation practices imposed short of trial. The former judges and attorneys that are called upon to conduct these mediations have had great success in many cases in encouraging patent owners facing a strong defence to rationally deal with the risks of a trial in their settlement demands.

Also notice in the filing---

The parties have been diligently negotiating the terms of an agreed upon Protective

Order, but there remain a few open issues that still need to be resolved. The parties are hopeful

that all such open issues can be resolved by July 29, 2006.

This request for an extension is not sought for purposes of delay, but that justice might be

done.

And take a look at the guy from Houstson--he has experience in mediation.

His practice includes trials, appeals, pre-litigation analyses, and counseling on litigation strategy, including the use of alternative dispute resolution proceedings. He has done extensive work in litigation of cases involving semiconductors, telecommunications and software.

Good luck, ads

PS fs2006, Thank you for sharing all of your DD. It has been very helpful to me. ads