"It does not work like that (in my experience) - no party would prolong JUST to spin a story. That is the type of ethics that gets you fired!!!!"

I would be happy for a settlement sooner than later. If the J's aren't holding out for a better deal (offer), what is taking so long.

One poster, just after the stay pacer, announced that his lawyer friend thought the situation sounded like a courthouse step settlement.

As the trial date approaches, both sides will be more flexible in negotiating numbers, provided the USPTO doesn't filet one of them.

I will add IMO. I don't want to fool anyone into thinking that I have any experience in this whatsoever.