Verizon Settles Out Of Court For $21 Million Over Fees

OK, all you haters out there, it's not just me that sees the writing on the wall. Verizon settled out of court for $21 million today in a class-action lawsuit all about those wretched early termination fees.

Of course, this isn't the same as a ruling against them, as this is a settlement, and the terms of the settlement have yet to be released. However, the fact that they are settling means Verizon probably didn't feel like they could win the suit. Settling prevents possibly precedent setting judgment against them, but also sparks the possibility for other class-action suits.

I have not hidden my hatred of Early Termination Fees, and I've heard a lot of feedback agreeing and disagreeing with me, but I can't help but look at this and think that it's a good start in the direction of consumer friendliness. It's unfortunate that it had to come to a multi-million dollar lawsuit, but that's the way it goes with these corporations some times.

If you live in Alameda County, California, and you Verizon, you might be able to jump ship fee-free or reduced-fee just in time to get your new iPhone!

Verizon to Pay $21 Million to Settle Suit Over Fees [NY Times]