Microsoft expects cross examination of its witnesses in the landmark antitrust trial to last until the first week in March.
The company's lead witness, Richard Schmalensee, interim dean of MIT's Sloan School of Management, will continue on the stand through next week, according to Thomas Burt, associate general counsel for the software giant. Microsoft started presenting its defense this week, in a trial that started October 19.
The U.S. Justice Department and 19 states have accused Microsoft of using predatory practices to extend its monopoly in computer operating systems to Internet software, crushing rivals such as Netscape Communications. Microsoft denies the charges.
"We expect that this is going to drag on through the end of the year," said William Epifanio, a J.P. Morgan analyst who has a "buy rating on the stock. If Microsoft loses the trial, it will appeal, he said.
Microsoft holds a weekly teleconference with invited analysts to update them on the trial. Microsoft officials couldn't immediately be reached for comment.
Microsoft shares today rose 8 to 149.75.
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