[TankGirl]

from Slyck:

While copyright holders laugh off Sharman's countersuit, the potential exists that the RIAA may never be able to disable the FastTrack network. In the current war of words between the two camps, Sharman has come out swinging.

Specifically, Sharman has stated that the plaintiffs (RIAA, MPAA) would have to argue before an Australian court before any US ruling can take effect. Considering that the case is projected to last at least 18 months, any additional hearing will only protract the case, perhaps until mid 2005.

"Before a US judgment can be enforced against any company in Australia -- the plaintiffs have to establish whether or not the US-courts have any jurisdiction in Australia," Sharman lawyer Roderick Dorman said. "In many respects this lawsuit represents a fool's errand."

Unlike Napster, Sharman is a profitable company that can sustain this legal battle. Win or lose, FastTrack is going to stick around for some time to come.

Mid 2005 sounds great to me... at that time there should be dozens of great decentralized alternatives for Kazaa even if FastTrack could somehow be closed...

- tg