Well, OK, it's really another of those stories about a cut-up judge, who, in this case, issued an order compelling Defendant's counsel to accept the Plaintiff's counsel's lunch invitation:
There are a number of fine restaurants within easy driving distance of both counsel's
offices, e.g., Christopher's, Vincent's, Morton's, Donovan's, Bistro 24 at the Ritz-Carlton, The
Arizona Biltmore Grill, Sam's Café (Biltmore location), Alexi's, Sophie's and, if either counsel
has a membership, the Phoenix Country Club and the University Club. Counsel may select their
own venue or, if unable to agree, shall select from this list in order. The time will be noon
during a normal business day. The lunch must be conducted and concluded not later than August
18, 2006.
(There's a footnote to the last sentence adding "The Court is aware of the penchant of Plaintiff's counsel to take extended cruises during the summer months.")
I never quite know what to think about these stories. On the one hand, it must be kind of fun, as a judge, to write this sort of decision. On the other hand, you have to listen to highly educated lawyers behaving like idiots long enough to want to write this sort of decision. It's a tough call.
(Via a mailing list.)