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Judge Denies Google Lawyers' Fee Grab
21 Mar
Summary
- Class action lawyers sought fees from rival attorneys' settlements.
- Judge cited 'exaggerated claims' of free-riding by rival lawyers.
- Individual publishers accused Google of antitrust violations.
A New York judge has rejected a bid by lawyers representing a class of publishers to secure a portion of fees from future settlements with Alphabet's Google. The class attorneys had sought 10% of any settlements or judgments derived from individual lawsuits concerning Google's advertising practices.
U.S. District Judge P. Kevin Castel stated on Thursday that the claims made by the class attorneys were "greatly exaggerated." These lawyers represent publishers alleging that Google has abused its market power and overcharged them, violating antitrust laws. Google denies any wrongdoing.
Castel certified the publishers' lawsuit as a class action in December. Law firms including Boies Schiller Flexner were appointed to represent the class. Competing firms, such as Kellogg Hansen, represent publishers in individual cases.
The class attorneys argued they deserved compensation for work that benefited all publishers. However, rival counsel contended the proposed fee was an "exorbitant fee" that could deter publishers from opting out of the class action. Google had also urged the judge to reject the request, stating it would hinder settlements.
