A. v A. is finally over and I am now at liberty to discuss it. . . but I won't. At least much.

Right speech (Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary?) prevents me from discussing the proceedings of the divorce that I was summoned to ajudicate in detail. Even if I were to speak the truth, the words will not be kind and the discussion is certainly not necessary.

But a few opinions, if I might: Two rich white people, with all the associated privileges and opportunities, who chose not to work or do anything to bring in any income during the course of their ill-fated marriage (2001-2005). His third, her sixth. Instead, they survived by taking second and third lines of credits on their existing homes, paying off credit cards with new credit cards, kiting their debt higher and higher until there was really precious little for the jury to have to equitably divide in the end. But during this lean time, they still vacationed in Costa Rica, had uninsured, elective surgery (tummy tucks), and bought Armani suits. I've known nine-year-olds with more sustainable visions of their future than these two.

Is it surprising, then, that at the end they were both hoarding and hiding money one from the other, which ultimately led to the demise of their marriage?

The jury had little sympathy for them, especially the husband, who chose not to retain a lawyer but instead represented himself at a juried trial. I had to work hard, and take a lot of flak, to prevent the other jurists from completely railroading the husband, but even then, he wound up with less cash than I've carried in my pockets on some days.

The first day, Tuesday, was spent mostly waiting to be selected for a case, for jury selection once a case was assigned, and for opening arguments. We were told that the trial was to last for one day, but due to the incompetence of the husband's lawyer (himself), the case bungled into a second day for closing arguments, jury deliberation and reading of the verdict.

But, hey, three days out of the office, a chance to snoop through the intimate and financial affairs of rich folk, lunch with some pretty girls, and a little better understanding of how our legal system works. And, a $25/day stipend.

It could be worse.