I think the appeals in the Earll case are more of a delaying action than anything. Whether or not Earll finished everything (and it appears that he didn't), he did a lot of work for which I expect he is owed something. Up until now, it would have been very hard for SFMI to come up with any money (they didn't even pay debts they acknowledge they owe, such as the mortgage payments on the mill property). I wouldn't be surprised to see a settlement if/when funding comes through and SFMI actually has funds to settle with. Otherwise, the legal bills would soon exceed any payment they might have to make, and I doubt that the new guys are as stubborn as PQ or willing to throw away good money just so PQ can have his pissing match.