
Many popular court shows are on TV. How can the genre improve? How about using a three-judge panel? That's the concept of "Hot Bench," created by Judge Judy Sheindlin. After hearing each case, the judges discuss it among themselves before rendering a verdict. The show's title comes from a term describing a court action in which a judge frequently interrupts lawyers with questions.

The plaintiff says her brother refused to return a $100 gambling loan and damaged her car during an argument; he says she was drunk and driving recklessly, and any damage was her fault.

An artist says he completed most of a custom mural before being threatened and driven off the job, while the truck owner argues that the mural was barely started and needed to be completely redone.

The owner of a nonprofit social services organization sues his subletter for nonpayment of rent, while she says his business partner advised her to withhold payment while they sorted out a problem with the building's owner.

One former bestie says a soured friendship turned into a fight and a jewelry heist; the other cries harassment and self-defense.