Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse Thorn clear out the docket on free refills, open mics (or is it open MIKES?), canoe weekends and what to do if your friend recommends a book he hasn't actually read.

Ty files suit against her partner Zach. Zach is obsessed with earning and using airline points and miles. Ty also likes to travel, but she wants to give up the crazy schemes and choose their vacation destinations and itineraries the "normal" way. Who's right? Who's wrong?

With expert witness Teresa McElroy of Shmanners! Bob brings the case against his fiancee Alessandra. They have a "no boring stories" policy when they are at home together. Now Alessandra wants an exception for stories about the workplace. Should they change the rules? Only one man can decide.

With Special Expert Witness Alton Brown! Stephanie brings the case against her partner Jeff, who works as a chef. Jeff will often leave his smoky and bacon-y aprons and detritus in his car. Stephanie thinks that the car should remain neat and clean; Jeff says the mess is manageable, and comes with the job. Who's right? Who's wrong?

We premiere a new segment this week, Status Conference, plus a dad goes on trial. Marc brings the case against his wife Polly. They had a beloved dog who passed away several years ago. Marc would like to assemble and prepare a display of the skeleton in memory of their pet. Polly thinks this is weird and gross. Who's right? Who's wrong?

Judge Hodgman fills us in on the birthplace of Italian-American pizza, garbage and breezeways, the adventures of Alex Vennenzula, and more.

Jeanna files suit against her husband Craig. She insists that Craig mishandles books, by dogearing the pages and using them as doorstops around the house. 

Must a stay-at-home dad be obliged to answer calls and texts?

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse rule on toaster ovens, purchasing "singles" in card games and whether a couple should go for the animal trifecta - two puppies and a kitten.

Dan files suit against his girlfriend Jessica. Jessica has a pair of low-grade prescription glasses. She prefers not to wear them, claiming they are not attractive. Dan says she's missing out on life by refusing to wear the glasses. Who's right? Who's wrong?

Should a globe-trotting pal be forced to come home every once in a while?

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse address airplane etiquette, the importance of Hamilton, swear words and more! There's no explicit content in this one, but you may not want kids listening to it all the same.

"Beyond a Reasonable Drought" and "A Portrait of the Artist as a Weird Dad", taped in front of a live audience at SF Sketchfest 2016! Plus, Swift Justice and songs from special guest Thao Nguyen of Thao and the Get Down Stay Down.

Look out for Thao's new record and tourdates at the band's site. A MAN ALIVE is out March 4th!

Please note that this week's episode includes bleeped swearing.

Jesse brings the case against his dad, Joseph. Joseph insists that his children hire a mime for his funeral (when the time comes). Jesse insists that a funeral is a time for grieving, not miming. 

Judge Hodgman and Jesse clear the docket on shouting at drive thrus, ski trips, subway turtles and more, and also set the record straight on Sha-Na-Na.

Blair brings the case against her husband Jon. In hot weather, Jon would like to wear one of his few treasured tank tops to cool off and feel the breeze. Blair thinks that tank tops on men look terrible and expose their sweaty arms to the masses. 

Simone brings the case against her husband, Julian. They're currently living abroad in Portugal, on the island of Madeira. They've enjoyed adapting to the customs of their new home, but Julian can't get used to their special built-in grill. Simone says they should do as the Portuguese do and figure out how to take advantage of this beautiful piece of equipment. Julian thinks they should just buy a hibachi. Who's right? Who's wrong?

Dramatic sneezing, toothpaste storage in the shower, ugly Christmas plates, and British vs. American PCs. Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse clear out the docket.

When Hector wants to get a hold of his friend Molly, he'll send her repeated texts or emails, with just the word "hi" or an emoji. Molly says his digital poking has become a stressor in her life. Can Judge Hodgman help these pals resolve their dispute?

Judge Hodgman's coda to the "A Hot Dog is Not a Sandwich" debate, plus rulings on wedding photography, urinating in public showers, pillow borrowing, and how to credit others' work on the internet.

Laura has refused to play Mortal Kombat with her boyfriend Austin since he began doing extensive research and practice outside of their video game sessions. Should Austin come back down to her level so they can play a beloved game together? CAN he even do so? Guest Bailiffed by David Rees!

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse clear out the docket, taking on the right way to share a suitcase, how to order at restaurants without infuriating your server, and "The Game".

Guest Bailiff David Rees joins us to talk about whether or not a married couple should hire a housecleaner. GOING DEEP with David Rees returns for its second season tonight on the Esquire Network!

Libby brings the case against her husband Aaron. Aaron is a minister by occupation, and thinks he should always be upfront about his job when meeting new people. Libby says he should play it cool till he gets to know them a bit better. Who's right? Who's wrong?

Judge Hodgman and Guest Bailiff Elliott Kalan of the Flop House clear out the docket, ruling on how to talk to a robot, the rights and privileges of toys, the appropriate way to introduce your kids to team sports, and more.

Judge John Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse Thorn clear out the docket, addressing issues of late-night hot tubbing, cuddling in theaters, rug placement and taking photos with Wayne Gretzky.

Reed's dad Bruce has suffered some hearing loss - must he try hearing aids? How about an ear trumpet? Find out when Judge John Hodgman rules!

Switcheroo week! One Bad Mother hosts Biz Ellis and Theresa Thorn are guest hosting Judge John Hodgman this week. You'll find John Hodgman over at the RISK! podcast. Judge Biz and Bailiff Theresa decide: should a couple with a baby seek out other young parents? Or are their old (non-parent) friends sufficient?

Judge Hodgman and Guest Bailiff Paul F. Tompkins clear out the docket!

Featuring Guest Bailiff Paul F. Tompkins! Siblings Rolland and Nyssa want to reboot the family Christmas. How should they go about it? 

Ted brings the case against his good friend Chris. They will make plans, but Chris will suddenly become unreachable when it comes time to meet up. Ted's calls and texts go unanswered. Ted says Chris needs to step up and let him know when his plans have changed. Chris says the plans weren't firm, so he's not entirely in the wrong. Who's right? Who's wrong? Only one man can decide.

Judge Hodgman and Guest Bailiff Jean Grae take on the proper way to do the YMCA dance, marriage proposals, and more.

Two friends co-host a literary reading series as a labor of love. Should they begin to seek donations?

Is fresh best? How often should pet-soiled sheets be washed?

Listen in as Judge John rules on metal meat utensils, 40 year olds listening to EDM, Vlad the Impaler-based religions, and the proper order to listen to podcasts. This week with Bailiff Jesse Thorn!

What's "public" and what's "private" space? A woman agrees to refrain from wearing a certain pair of shoes in public, but finds the terms unclear.

Caroline brings the case against her husband Steve. They cannot agree -- how many TVs is TOO many? Caroline thinks it's best to minimize TV watching, and that a single TV is most appropriate. Steve says it can't hurt to have a few extra screens as long as you don't go overboard. Who's right? Who's wrong? Only one man can decide.

Judge Hodgman is assisted by Summertime Bailiff Monte Belmonte, taking on questions of broccoli-chomping, accidental raccoonslaughter, game night disputes, and the best construction of jokes.

Should Adrian be allowed to purchase an artisanal axe, flouting house rules about weapons?

When someone posts something offensive or wrong on social media, should you call them out?

That's my verdict, that's my ruling! Judge John Hodgman rules on dressing cats in shirts, obnoxious behavior at Mexican restaurants, and more.

Judge Hodgman tells us what's wrong and what's right! Is ice cream actually "candy"? Should you go to your mom's 60th birthday party? Is it ok to leave used snot rags lying around?

Aron and Molly's yard is littered with balls kicked over from the park next door. They can't agree on how best to return the balls and appease the kids.

Parents listening with children, know that this case involves Santa Claus! Catch our drift? Andy brings the case against his wife Virginia. Andy wants to share the spirit of Christmas and Santa all year long. Virginia wants to restrict it to the holiday season. Who's right? Who's wrong?

Judge Hodgman rules on indiscriminate hot-saucing, Vegas buffet etiquette, civic responsibility and more. Plus an update on the Brocavores from Episode 167!

How should a couple catch a recycling bin thief?

Is it possible to live a birthday-free life? Is it possible to acknowledge being another year older without all the birthday trappings? A couple brings their case before the judge.

Bailiff Jesse returns to the courtroom! Judge Hodgman rules on the Oxford comma, Hawaiian short pants, and tries not to hurt anyone's "Disney feelings". 

Guest Bailiff Jean Grae returns to help Judge Hodgman clear out the docket, ruling on teenage liars, snuggling with teddy bears, sopping up messes with toilet paper, and more.

Colin enjoys rising with the sun each day, but is it an impractical habit? Guest starring Jean Grae as the Bailiff!

When is it OK to leave your own party early and retire to bed?

Judge Hodgman rules on busted doors, schoolbus naming, and whether or not cereal is a soup. Plus a Hodgman Dubbel update!

Is Jonas a snob for preferring more expensive liquor?

Should Scott get back out on the ice and play beer league hockey with his friend, or is he TOO OLD?

Should Anton give psychics a chance? This week, with expert witness Carrie Poppy of Oh No! Ross and Carrie!

A man starts a Hulk parody account of a friend on Twitter. Is it funny, unoriginal or just STRAIGHT UP IMPERSONATION?

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse clear out the docket with gusto, answering questions about pickle relish, Pee-wee, apartment tours, and the difference between Jim Varney and Verne Troyer.

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse tackle the reuse of ziptop bags, sleeping in jeans, Luddites, and creative work in today's docket clearing. Plus, Judge Hodgman admits to some monstrous behavior.

How many socks is TOO many socks?

This week, our live show from SF Sketchfest, including "Justice in Thirty Minutes or Less", "Spit Decision" and music from John Vanderslice and A-1.

Judge Hodgman weighs in on loud popcorn eating, anniversaries, fedoras, and selects the best drawings of his proposed Double-Ended Unicycle.

A wife thinks her husband is too strict about their no-shoe policy inside the home.

Should an elderly cat be treated as a family member?

A man wants to dedicate a room of his house to the movie Frozen; his husband objects. With special expert witnesses Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez!

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse are rarin' to clear out the docket & follow up with the brothers from "Wake Me Up Before You Go, Bro"!

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse ring in the new year with some docket clearing.

A man suggested that his friend read a very long series of fantasy novels, but isn't satisfied with the pace of her reading.

A man seeks to enforce a contract regarding pizza toppings.

We address winter holiday disputes in this all-docket episode (with a special surprise appearance from a past guest).

Should a couple install a sports team's flag outside their home?

Should Alex relinquish his beloved "grandpa shoes", purchased secondhand?

Two families live together in a communal household, but they have trouble explaining it outsiders. Should they pretend to be related, or be honest and embrace the weirdness?

Dale wants to build a camping trailer, but her husband Shawn objects.

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse clear the docket (be forewarned: there's nightmare gerbil talk).

Should an ailing dog be given free reign when riding in the car?

Bailiff Jesse and Judge John Hodgman return to chambers to clear out the docket.

WHERE CAN I SEE JUDGE HODGMAN IN REAL LIFE?

Great question! Judge Hodgman is out on the road right now, touring the Midwest and Northeast United States! Chicago! Milwaukee! Akron! Hartford! and more.

Find a tourdate in your area here! 

Will brings the case against his friend Moby. Moby has constructed a "friendship and acquaintance theory" that helps her navigate the relationships in her life. She's entirely upfront about which people in her life are acquaintances, and which are friends. She says it helps her maintain better relationships. Will thinks Moby has gone overboard with the theory, and it's alienating her from other people. Who's right? Who's wrong?

Judge John Hodgman clears the docket with some special guests from Song Exploder, The Memory Palace and My Brother, My Brother and Me in celebration of MaxFunWeek.

Is a man entitled to a beard?

Judge Hodgman & Bailiff Jesse clear the docket, read pedantic letters, and talk about starting a horror movie club.

Home renovation gone wrong (or has it?)!

Michelle's fiance is a prankster and has taken things too far! Will the judge crack down on the goofs?

An American graduate student wants her dad to visit her in Norway, the land of trolls.

Steffen protests: too many pool parties!

A woman takes her mother to court over fingernail clipping in public.

Jake and Janey have taken safety measures to protect their home since a spate of break-ins have happened in their neighborhood. But they disagree about which measures are most effective. 

Stacey brings the case against her boyfriend Greg. When they go on trips together, Greg likes to dawdle and take his time getting on the road. Stacey wants to get out bright and early.

Beth loves animals and wants to get a pet snake, but her husband is opposed to slithery things.

A couple plans to move out to the country, and can't agree on whether or not they should allow hunting on the new property. 

BUZZ MARKETING BAN LIFTED: Katie wants her boyfriend Dallas to go on her favorite ride at Disneyland. With Special Expert Witness Mark Gagliardi!

Two brothers have decided to live off the land for a year, but they can't agree on some of the tiny details of their plan.

Becky says her friend Nancy's Shetland ponies are ill-mannered. Nancy disagrees and says they're perfect just as they are. Who's right?

Declan wants his older brother Taran to stop using him as his personal alarm clock.

Stephanie brings the case against her brother Mitch. They live at home with their parents and can't agree - who should get the coveted driveway spot and who should trudge through the mud to get to their car?

Zaki always controls the stereo on long car rides, and Michelle wants to get in on the action. Who gets to choose the audio playlist on a road trip, the driver or the passenger?

Leala's husband acts as her in-house hairdresser and helps her dye her hair each month. Now he wants to retire the gloves and send her to the salon. 

Should a couple in Berlin install an air conditioner in their new apartment? Dominik enjoys the heat, while Laura prefers a cooler climate. 

Two Quebecers quarrel: should they speak English or French when they're out and about in their hometown of Montreal? With expert witness Jonathan Goldstein, host of CBC's WireTap!

Mollie says that her husband Geoff spends way too much time on his turns during board games, plotting the perfect move to crush his opponents. Should Geoff hurry up?

Marika says her husband Joe's habit of tipping housekeeping and service workers with coins is rude and contrary to the spirit of the gesture. Joe says, as long as he's tipping, what's the problem?