New judge assigned to US government's antitrust case against Apple
The US government's antitrust lawsuit against Apple has been reassigned to a new judge. The case is now under the jurisdiction of US District Judge Julien Neals in New Jersey. This development took place on Wednesday following the recusal of Judge Michael Farbiarz due to a potential conflict of interest. His rescual has been accepted by the chief judge.
Farbiarz had to recuse himself over ethical grounds
Judge Farbiarz issued a brief statement explaining his decision to step down from the case. He said the decision was prompted by a judicial ethics rule, which prohibits judges from adjudicating disputes involving themselves or family members with close connections or financial interests. The specific reasons behind his recusal were not disclosed in the order.
Background of the judges involved in the case
Both Judge Farbiarz and Judge Neals were nominated by US President Joe Biden. Neals, who has been serving since 2021, previously worked as a county government lawyer in New Jersey. On the other hand, Farbiarz began his tenure last year. Prior to his nomitation, he held the position of general counsel to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
Details of the antitrust lawsuit against Apple
The lawsuit against Apple was filed in March this year by the Justice Department and 15 US states. The plaintiffs allege that Apple has monopolized the phone market through restrictions imposed on app developers, stifling competition and innovation. They argue that these practices force consumers to pay higher prices.
