Trident, the US graphics technology designer, accuses VIA and VIA subsidiary S3 Graphics, and some former employees of conspiring to "misappropriate
Trident's trade secrets".

The company has taken extreme umbrage at attempts by VIA to 'systematically' poach its staff. It says this is an attempt to undermine its business; the raiding expeditition is fuelled by confidential information about the company.

Trident filed a lawsuit in the California Superior Court late last week. No news yet from VIA/S3/ex-employees. But we guess they'll fight. ®