"...Verizon has consistently sought to avoid a jury trial before this Court. Thus, at the inception of the case, Verizon took numerous actions to have the case heard in Delaware rather than in SF, including filing a motion to stay which was denied. Verizon has also repeatedly requested, and this Court had repeatedly denied, reassignment to Case Management Plan III. Verizon informed the Court in its Status Conference Statement that it plans to renew its request. Once again, Northpoint opposes reassignement. Furhtermore, Northpoint has opposed Verizon's notice of related case and request for consolidation, which is unnecessary and which will only further delay this case. Due to Verizon's initial delays and due to extended briefing, Verizon is only now filing its Answer. However, the case is now ready to be set for trial on three simple claims - breach of contract, fraud and negligent misrepresentation. Verizon's demurrer has been overruled. Resolution of Northpoint's bankruptcy is being delayed by not expeditiously resolving this lawsuit. Until such time as this case is concluded, the bankruptcy proceedings cannot be concluded, thereby prejudicing creditors, lenders and shareholders..."

Lynn Schoenmann (11/7/01 status conference, Superior Court of California)