Microsoft granted a quick hearing

The U.S. Court of Appeals has granted Microsoft Corporation's request foran expedited hearing of its appeal of Judge Jackson's preliminary injunction. Originally, the appeal was to be held March 9th, which Microsoft felt was too far in the future. Though no new date has been set,it will be much sooner.

"We are very pleased with the ruling and feel that once the appeals court has heard all the evidence, they will agree that we are in full compliance with the consent decree," said Microsoft spokesperson Mark Murray.

Last week, the Department of Justice told the appellate court that thesoftware giant should not be granted an expedited hearing because the preliminary injunction was not causing Microsoft any major hardship