**Apple and Amazon Pursue Reimbursement for Legal Fees After Price-Fixing Lawsuit Dismissal**
In September 2023, Apple and Amazon were exonerated from accusations in a price-fixing lawsuit linked to iPhones and iPads. The lawsuit, filed in 2022 by the law firm Hagens Berman on behalf of plaintiff Steven Floyd, alleged that the companies engaged in anticompetitive conduct aimed at reducing the number of resellers for these devices on Amazon’s platform. U.S. District Judge Kymberly Evanson dismissed the case, noting that Floyd’s departure from the case was marred by miscommunication from his legal representatives about his availability.
In the wake of the dismissal, Apple and Amazon submitted a petition to Judge Evanson, requesting reimbursement for legal fees resulting from what they term “well-documented misrepresentations” by Hagens Berman. The companies contend that these misrepresentations not only squandered court resources but also incurred unnecessary costs for them. Their filing cites Supreme Court precedents that permit the awarding of fees when attorneys behave in bad faith.
Specifically, Apple is asking for $540,000 in fees, while Amazon is requesting $1.4 million. A representative for Hagens Berman, Steve Berman, has indicated that the firms will “vigorously” oppose the fee request, claiming that the companies are not entitled to such reimbursements.
This legal dispute underscores ongoing tensions within the tech sector regarding competition and pricing strategies, as well as the intricacies involved in class action lawsuits. As the case unfolds, it will be imperative to track the developments and consequences for both companies and the wider market.
