MICROSOFT PUTS THE PRESS ON OUTSIDE LITIGATION COUNSEL: Microsoft is in the middle of a global review of its law firms as it attempts to control spiralling legal costs caused mainly by its endless antitrust and patent litigation.

It's being reported that the world's largest software house has frozen hourly rates until the selection process is completed. Those firms chosen so far have had to conform to a whole new set of terms and conditions, which include demonstrating a commitment to diversity.

Moreover, with Microsoft's antitrust battles against the European Commission showing no sign of settling any time soon, the focus has also extended to Europe.

Money Quote: Microsoft's European general counsel Horacio Gutierrez declined to comment on the review "because it makes law firms nervous".