Ep 1. The Next Voice You Hear...

It's the start of a new season at the Manhattan Municipal Court, and the first case on the docket involves a man named Ivy Rosenhaus (played by guest star Stephen Lee), who claims to have heard the voice of God. Judge Harry T. Stone (played by Harry Anderson) is skeptical of Rosenhaus' claims, but decides to hear him out anyway. As it turns out, Rosenhaus has been hearing the voice of God for some time now, ever since he had a heart attack a year ago. The voice has been urging him to do good deeds and help those in need, which is why he's been volunteering at a homeless shelter and giving away his money to strangers.

Despite the fact that Rosenhaus is clearly not mentally stable, Judge Stone decides to take a chance on him and gives him a simple task to complete. Rosenhaus is tasked with finding a lost dog that was reported missing in the park. If he succeeds, he'll be rewarded with $50 and Judge Stone's respect. Rosenhaus agrees to the challenge, and sets out to find the dog.

Meanwhile, Dan Fielding (played by John Larroquette) is struggling with his own problems. He's been seeing a therapist to deal with his issues, but he's not making any progress. His therapist, Dr. Claire Stevens (played by guest star Janine Turner), is beautiful and intelligent, but she's also very tough on him. Dan can't seem to win her over, no matter what he does. He tries to charm her with his witty comments and flirtatious banter, but she sees right through him. As the episode goes on, Dan begins to open up more to Dr. Stevens and reveals some of his deepest, darkest secrets.

Meanwhile, Bull Shannon (played by Richard Moll) is dealing with his own drama. He's been seeing a woman named Sheila (played by guest star Pamela Segall), who he met at a bar. Sheila is a lot of fun and very outgoing, but Bull is worried that she's only interested in him because he's a court officer. He confides in Harry, who suggests that he try to get to know Sheila better and find out what she really wants.

As the episode comes to a close, Ivy Rosenhaus returns to the court with the lost dog in tow. He's ecstatic to have completed his task, and Judge Stone is impressed by his determination. Despite his mental health issues, Rosenhaus has proven that he's capable of doing good things and making a difference in the world. The episode ends with Harry and the rest of the court staff celebrating their victory, and Dan making a breakthrough in his therapy session with Dr. Stevens.

Overall, "The Next Voice You Hear..." is a classic Night Court episode that showcases the show's blend of humor and heart. While the episode deals with serious themes like mental illness and therapy, it never feels heavy-handed or preachy. Instead, it's a lighthearted and entertaining look at the lives of the court staff and their various personal struggles. As always, Harry and the gang prove that even in the most trying of circumstances, they can find a way to come out on top.