Ever wonder where shows like The People's Court find their subjects? Well, the answer is here: They troll through small claims court looking for filings. (OK, you can learn that at Wikipedia, but stay with me on this one.)

I brought suit a few weeks ago in small claims court, only the 2nd time I've needed to do that in 20 years of solo practice. I paid an expert money for a review, and he never did the review. He didn't say yes to my case, he didn't say no, he simply put the retainer in his pocket, the records some where else, and then ignored me when I called to find out what was going on.

So I finally got his attention with a suit. (If I have to do this only once very 10 years, then I'll count myself lucky.)

Enter, stage right in today's mail, a letter from The People's Court asking if the two sides would like to have Judge Marilyn Milian arbitrate our case. Lawyer v. Expert.

What do we get if we agree?

1. If I win then they guarantee payment, meaning I wouldn't have to go through any collection proceedings to satisfy a judgment.

2. If I lose, they still pay me $250 for my time.

3. No waiting time in real court, as they set up a real date and time; and

4. Travel expenses.

What they don't guarantee is that anyone appearing on such a show will be free of gratuitous humiliation that any judge wishes to dish out. Now I don't know if that is the style of the show as I haven't seen it, but if a show isn't entertaining then the ratings go kaflooie and it drops off the air. And, frankly, I don't feel like being anyone's entertainment unless they are under the age of 10 and share my last name.

Why would any rationale person subject themselves to a TV court? It's not something I can figure out.

Thanks, but I'll pass. And besides, if it isn't with Judge Wapner it doesn't count.

Labels: Odds and Ends