by , 7:45 PM EDT, August 4th, 2006

A new law suit has been filed against Apple Computer by shareholders over the irregularities in stock option grants. The suit names Apple and certain executives and board members, and alleges that the defendants improperly backdated stock options, took tax deductions in violation of tax codes based on the options, and issued false financial statements to shareholders.

The law firm of Keller Rohrback L.L.P. is representing Apple shareholders in the case, which it filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.

Apple previously announced that it was conducting an internal investigation into the stock option grant irregularities, and that it had retained independent counsel to handle the investigation and reporting. Earlier today, the company said that it may have to restate some financial statements based on the findings. It also will likely have to postpone filing Form 10-Q for the financial period ending on July 1, 2006.

In early July, two lawsuits were filed against Apple for its handling of stock option grants.

Representatives from Keller Rohrback L.L.P. were unavailable for comment.

Apple Computer is currently trading after hours at US$68.33, up 0.03 (0.04%).