Do the “judge shows” make legally binding rulings?”
I love Judge Judy in a sick, sick way. Here’s the deal. By agreeing to appear on the show, both parties have to sign a contract waiving their ability to bring a full lawsuit, and agreeing to treat this as an Arbitration or Mediation that is binding. So although Judy’s “court” has no real legal standing, the contract the producers have drawn up is. As for the judgement awards – sadly, the show pays for those. There is a $5,000 budget for each case (as that is the maximum award in “small claims courts”). And the show pays the winner. According to show staffers it’s still amazing how worked up the Defendants/Plaintiffs still get, even knowing in the backs of their minds that they aren’t out any real money. Oh, and the courtroom “audience” is all made up of extras. Hired actors. Kind of takes away the thrill of Officer Byrd’s anger. Sorry to poop on your parade. Hope you can still enjoy the show.
