The Midlife

The OG hosted by Judge Joseph A. Wapner (1919-2017): RIP

When I was growing up, I took great satisfaction in watching The People’s Court, which aired from 1981-1993 and was led by Judge Wapner. It was my introduction to law and advocacy and it just brought some solid entertainment. From the distinctive theme song, Judge Wapner’s no-nonsense judgment deliveries, and the unforgettable post-proceeding commentary with Doug Llewelyn, all future reality TV law shows paled in comparison. The show’s long-standing motto echoes in my brain. Remember: Don’t take the law into your own hands. You take them to court. Such wisdom inspired me, as I recently contested a parking ticket.

Two months ago, I was horrified to receive a $50 parking ticket at my place of work. With the exception of the dummies that park in any handicapped spots, I had never heard of any other parking fines enforced. I will admit I was guilty of parking in a parking spot designated for EV charging stations. In my defense, I parked at the last possible charging spot before the start of regular parking. And while I normally wouldn’t contest such things, I decided in this case I would, and for two reasons. 1. I think $50 is a rather expensive parking fine. 2. Why should I be penalized for not owning an EV and get less than ideal parking choices? I decided to explore my inner Wapner.

Last month, I received my court date notice and then I started to second-guess myself. I’m a rule follower, by nature. I don’t like to cut the line or take the last cookie. I think about other people all the time. I try to do the right thing, at all costs. But somehow, I drew the line at $50. So I took my folder full of supporting documents to the district court this past Friday.

I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would there be a lot of yelling, as I have seen on countless TV shows and movies. Would I take my judgment with a stoic expression or would this be my Meryl Streep weepathon? Where would I place my coat?

Just before 2:30, I was led into a small court room by the bailiff and shown which seat to take. Moments before my name was called, a remote court case was taking place for someone needing an interpreter. (Why couldn’t that have been me? Then, I wouldn’t be having these last-minute jitters.) The case held just before mine was judged in a matter of three minutes, in favor of the defendant. Would I be lucky, too?

Finally, my name was called. I walked up to a table with a small microphone, just like you see in movies. When the judge invited me to share my testimony, my nervousness went away immediately. I could not believe how nice this judge was. When I presented my supporting documents about what I know about the law and signage, she thanked me and even consulted a book to read me the law itself. There was no whopping Wapner tone. And she thanked me with what seemed like absolute sincerity. “Thanks for bringing this to my attention,” she said after I shared information about the EV charging stations located in the district court parking lot.

In the end, she waived the fine. Not because I didn’t break the law, but because she thanked me for my long-time service and that I should have a proper parking space. What?? Was I in some sort of alternate universe where things go my way? I guess so.

I didn’t leave completely unscathed. I did have to pay court fees, which were marginal. But somehow I walked out of there walking taller and with my head held high. Is this what justice feels like? What would Judge Wapner have said about my day in court? Somehow I don’t think he would have objected.