Ninth Circuit Considers Antitrust Case Against Align Technology's Invisalign

Ninth Circuit Antitrust Case Overview

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is currently evaluating an important antitrust case concerning Align Technology, the company behind Invisalign clear braces. This case revolves around two class action lawsuits that accuse Align of monopolizing the market for clear braces and the associated teeth scanning technologies. During a recent oral argument, Joshua P. Davis, a representative from Berger Montague, presented convincing arguments that caught the judges' attention and could lead to a significant reversal of a prior ruling.

The background of the case centers on allegations that Align has unlawfully collaborated with 3Shape, a key player in the development of scanning technology that assists dentists in creating dental aligners. Plaintiffs in the case include a certified class of dental professionals as well as consumers who indirectly purchased Invisalign products. Both classes assert that Align’s practices have unfairly limited competition in the marketplace.

Davis expressed optimism following the judges’ feedback during the hearing, remarking on their thorough consideration of the points raised by both sides. He emphasized the firm’s commitment to pursuing justice for the thousands of dentists they represent, underscoring the broader implications of the case for consumer rights and competition in the dental industry.

The Department of Justice also participated in the hearing, endorsing the plaintiffs' arguments and urging a reassessment of the legal standards applied by the district court, which had previously dismissed the case without trial. This governmental support adds weight to the plaintiffs' claims, suggesting that the issues at hand might affect not only the parties involved but also the broader marketplace.

As the Ninth Circuit deliberates on this matter, the outcome could reshape the landscape for dental products and the strategies employed by companies within the sector. A decision to proceed to trial would allow for a thorough examination of the antitrust claims against Align Technology and, potentially, a re-evaluation of its market practices.

Berger Montague has established itself as a prominent law firm with decades of experience in antitrust litigation and has been at the forefront of numerous class action lawsuits. Known for successfully recovering substantial settlements and advocating for consumer protection, the firm’s involvement underscores the case's significance in legal and consumer advocacy circles.

Consumers and industry insiders alike are watching closely as the Ninth Circuit prepares to deliver its decision. With the potential for a trial, the implications of this case could resonate across multiple sectors, influencing not just dental practices, but also how antitrust laws are applied in technology-driven industries. As this story develops, it will be crucial to monitor updates from the court and the responses from Align Technology and its competitors.

For more information on the specifics of this case, visit Berger Montague's official page.