FiOS trial underway
Within the hour, the second day of trial will begin in Norfolk in a patent infringement case that reaches into the home of many Americans. At issue is FiOS, Verizon’s marquee television, Internet, and phone service.
The case is ActiveVideo Networks, Inc. v. Verizon Communications, Inc. et al., Eastern District of Virginia case no. 2:10-cv-00248, and the trial is taking place before Judge Raymond A. Jackson. The mainstream media has shown some interest – see this article in the Virginian-Pilot.
A copy of the Amended Complaint, alleging that FiOS infringes five patents, is here.
Even a quick review of the 133-page docket reveals a rather phenomenal flurry of pretrial motions – orders have been entered this month ruling on no fewer than 20 motions in limine and 14 motions to seal and also denying an emergency motion for sanctions and to continue the trial by Verizon. In fact, on June 28, Judge Jackson held a hearing after which the docket recorded: “Court directed cnsl not to file motions unless leave of Court is granted.”
Whether the jury will find that FiOS is “A network powered by relentless innovation” or relentless infringement should soon be known, but certainly relentless litigation has already taken place.
