Thursday, June 08, 2006

Advanced dispute resolution

(from Fortune via CNN)

Federal judge Gregory A. Presnell of Orlando, Florida ordered two Tampa attorneys to use a traditional dispute resolution process to decide scheduling for a deposition. The magic method? Rock, paper, scissors, to be played on the steps of the Federal courthouse in Tampa at 4pm on Friday, June 30th, and to be witnessed by a paralegal from each firm.

Being part of case-law, this can now be invoked to settle other minor disputes. Unfortunately, the judge ordered only 'one (1) game of "rock, paper, scissors."', with no mention of what to do in case of a tie.

Perhaps the attorneys could Ro-sham-bo, Cartman-stylee, for the honour of deciding the location of the deposition. Perhaps that method could become federally-mandated, leading to fewer attorneys: less attractive working conditions as well as less family practices...