MediaWeek columnist Marc Berman recently viewed an episode of Family Court With Judge Penny, which debuts three weeks from today on WBNX.  Here are his thoughts:  “Presided over by Judge Penny Brown Reynolds, who began life as an impoverished child raised by a single mother, what immediately set this court show apart was the relationship aspect of the case.  Instead of wondering whether or not the 18-year-old son of a troubled mother would win the $1,000 he was suing her for, the relationship between the two took center stage under the guidance of a completely relatable Judge Penny.  With so much court (on) the airwaves, you have to bring something unique to the table.  And what gives Family Court With Judge Penny an edge is the focus on themes of a more family and relationship oriented nature.”  For those who enjoy real-life drama and legal wrangling, WBNX will have a stellar courtroom lineup, weekdays beginning next month:

We’ve endured celebrities dancing, skating, singing, cooking, coexisting, being stranded on an island….oy! Now we’re asking them to…(gasp)…think. The new WBNX court show, Jury Duty, impanels three new stars each day to hear small-claims cases, deliberate and render a verdict. To be sure, this is the most unique element ever added to a daily legal show. And it’s not like they’re being asked to do something bizarre—even us “common folk” are summoned at times. These celebs are not exactly small fries: Oscar-nominee Debbie Reynolds, Olympic gold medalists Bruce Jenner and Scott Hamilton, and comedy legend Phyllis Diller are just a few of the “who’s who” jurists. Flamboyant Judge Bruce Cutler has made quite a name for himself, as well, defending mob boss John Gotti and accused murderer Phil Spector. Click on the behind-the-scenes preview here, and be sure to check out the series weekday afternoons at 1pm, right after Judge David Young, on WBNX.