Howard v. Howard

Writing in the second century A.D., the classic poet Juvenal, a mordant commentator on the mores of ancient Rome, inquired: “Tell me, what do pleaders get for their services in the courts and for those huge bundles of papers which they bring with them?” (Satire VII, lines 106-107, Ramsey Translation.) This antique question has been before the courts apparently since the dawn of jurisprudence. It likewise engrosses our attention in the instant matter.

In the current phase of this judicial odyssey, which has meandered through the appellate courts with rhythmic regularity, 1 plaintiff wife…