Ep 14. The Modest Proposal

When Harry Stone takes the night shift at the Manhattan Municipal Court, he is faced with a never-ending parade of quirky and eccentric characters who come through his courtroom doors. In "Night Court" Season 4 Episode 14, titled "The Modest Proposal," the zany antics and humorous courtroom proceedings continue.

"The Modest Proposal" begins with Judge Harry T. Stone (played by Harry Anderson) presiding over night court in the bustling city of New York. Known for his unorthodox and unpredictable style, Judge Stone finds himself at the center of chaos while trying to maintain order and dispense justice.

In this episode, a young couple appears before Judge Stone seeking advice on their marital woes. The couple, played by John Larroquette and Ellen Foley, is faced with the difficult decision of whether to get a divorce or not. As they present their case, their predicament takes a comical turn as misunderstandings and miscommunications arise, leading to some hilarious courtroom moments.

Meanwhile, the court staff is also dealing with their own personal dramas. Court clerk Mac (played by Charles Robinson) finds himself entangled in a love triangle when a beautiful woman from his past unexpectedly reappears. Unsure of his intentions, Mac's co-workers, including court reporter Christine (played by Markie Post), offer their guidance and support as he navigates this new romantic entanglement.

As the court proceedings continue, Judge Stone is confronted with a peculiar case involving a man who claims to be the inventor of a ground-breaking invention. Played by guest star James Cromwell, this eccentric character captures the attention of everyone in the courtroom as he passionately defends his creation. Judge Stone must use his wit and sharp legal skills to determine the validity of the claim and bring order to this unusual situation.

Adding to the flurry of activity in the courtroom, the public defender, Dan (played by John Larroquette), finds himself defending an alleged thief who insists on representing himself in court. This leads to a series of comedic moments as the defendant struggles to navigate the legal process and argue his case effectively. Dan, known for his sly and sarcastic demeanor, must balance his desire for a swift resolution with his duty to provide a fair defense.

As the episode progresses, the interactions between the various characters highlight the unique dynamics that exist within the night court. From the bumbling bailiff Bull (played by Richard Moll) to the street-smart defendant's advocate, Roz (played by Marsha Warfield), each character brings their own brand of humor and wit to the courtroom, creating an engaging and entertaining atmosphere.

"The Modest Proposal" showcases the comedy and charm that has made "Night Court" a beloved television series. With its clever writing, delightful performances, and memorable characters, the episode captures the essence of the show's unique blend of legal drama and zany humor.

As the night comes to a close, Judge Stone and his team wrap up another eventful night at the Manhattan Municipal Court. With a mix of laughter, absurdity, and unexpected twists, "The Modest Proposal" is a must-watch episode for fans of "Night Court" and anyone seeking a light-hearted and entertaining legal comedy.