Traffic court rooms are normally the backdrop to some of the duller cases that our legal system has to offer. Sometimes however a case comes along that is so observed it can’t help but make you stop and smile. Here are four such funny legal cases that will brighten a dull day.

The wedding crasher
If you were unfortunate enough to cause an accident you might expect to be ordered to pay for damages to the vehicles, maybe even compensation to victims injured in the incident, being asked to pay for a wedding however might take you by surprize, but this is exactly what one Italian couple demanded in court back in 1990.

The court heard how a Neapolitan couple had been parked in there Fiat Panda when another, much larger car, ran into the back of them causing damage to the car’s body work. A claim for the costs of repairing the car might seem fair enough, but a wedding?

Apparently the couple had been enjoying a sexual activity in the car, and the jolt to the car was enough to push them over the edge, ruining their planned contraception technique of “pulling out”.
The couple therefore held the driver that hit them responsible for the resulting pregnancy and thought it only fair that they should be able to claim wedding costs.

The Ghost Rider
Judges faced problems this year after they summoned a speeding female motorist to court after they received there 9th point from speeding violations. The culprit failed to appear in court on the grounds that they had died nearly a year before the speeding violations were committed. The incident turned out to be a tale of deceit rather than a ghost story. The woman’s husband had been committing the offences and filling out the paper work in his late wife’s name. She really was getting the blame for everything.

Tax benefits
If you fancy a new car, why not bill it to the tax payers. This is exactly what one Australian man tried to do when attempted to sue his local government for damages to his car. At first look you might think he had a decent case as the car was damaged whilst parked when a government truck drove into it. However as the man happened to be the government employee driving the truck at the time of the incident the case suddenly seemed a whole lot less straight forward. Eventually the court decided it could not hear the case as the man was effectively suing himself.
Still eager for a new car a second attempt at a court case has been made, this time in the name of the man’s wife who also part owns the car. However it seems this case might not be heard either as laws prevent a married couple from suing one another.

When too drunk to drive take a taxi
Taking a taxi when drunk might seem like good advice, but making sure you are sober enough to recognise a taxi from a Police car is probably even better advice. One UK drunk driver who had been caught by police decided to flee the scene. With access to his car being prevented by police the intoxicated offender thought he could make his escape by hailing a taxi. Unfortunately however the markings he’d recognised as that of a taxi were actually those of a Police car and no sooner than he’d sat down he was arrested. The court case here was not a particularly complicated one and a driving ban and fine were quickly imposed.

Traffic courts are not always this exciting and if you’ve fallen foul of a driving offence it’s often sensible to seek legal advice. One great source of legal driving advice is the Pannone driving offence solicitor’s blog that can be found here.

As seen on Mock the Week, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Let’s Dance For Comic Relief, Comedy Rocks With Jason Manford; Winner of the Funny Woman of the Year award.

99: What do you remember about your first gig?
A: That it was the archetypal awful first gig. More comics than audience, a drunk mc, no stage, just a space where other people where expected not to stand (unfortunately the toilet was behind the ‘playing area’ so that didn’t happen). Oh yeah and one comic did a rap that made an audience member cry (it was a good joke but the crying lady took the edge of it a little)

99: What do you love most about doing comedy?
A: Creating something out of nothing. Just you me and some thoughts I’ve had.

99: What do you hate most about comedy?
A: The pre-show anxiety: I could do without that. I wind myself up something rotten.

99: Describe yourself in 4 words or less
A: Lazy.

99: What would say to a brand new comedian?
A: Audiences love “knock knock” jokes. They’re coming back in a big way. Oh and make sure you’ve got a ripping 20 minutes about airplane food, Ryan air and the difference between men and women. People won’t know what’s hit them.

99: What would you say to an established multimillionaire comedian?
A: Word is, all the cool kids are doing “knock knock” jokes. Could help get your credibility back after all those ads you did (Just saying).

99: What do you think about the London comedy scene?
A: I think it’s convenient for home.

99: What do you think is the funniest word in the English language?
A: Fun. There’s no funnier word. Like there’s no wordier word than ‘word’

99: Given how many great female comedians are on the circuit, why isn’t there more on TV?
A :Blah blah blah….. Big yawn. Sorry did you say something?

99: Who is your favourite comedian?
A: Chris Rock.

99: Tell us three facts about yourself at least one of which is a lie.
A: Chris rock is my favourite comic, I was a Mensa member. I never lie.

99: What do you most love (or hate) about the Edinburgh Fringe?
A: I just don’t think there are enough shows and if only it were just one week longer.

99: Who would be at your ideal gig?
A: The person who’s going to give me a TV show.

99: What one thing would you do to improve comedy in the UK?
A: Nothing it’s fantastic. You have no idea. I just gigged in LA. Our scene is like the NHS: Sometimes you can only appreciate it when you see how other countries cope.

Josh is a former resident MC at the 99 Club Islington; the last couple of years has seen Josh appearing on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow , Live at the Apollo, and multiple appearances on 8 Out of 10 Cats.

99: What do you remember about your first gig?
J: Fear, total and utter fear; Then relief.

99: What do you love most about doing comedy?
J: That I am currently writing this in bed; it is 11am.

99: What do you hate most about comedy?
J: I have spent more time in regional branches of train station cafe Pumpkin than any man should have to.

99: Describe yourself in 4 words or less
J: Constantly tired.

99: What would say to a brand new comedian?
J: Keep your receipts: they are tax deductible.

99: What would you say to an established multimillionaire comedian?
J: Keep your receipts: they are tax deductible (no one is above saving money).

99: What do you think about the London comedy scene?
J: It is endless.

99: What do you think is the funniest word in the English Language?
J: LOL.

99: Given how many great female comedians are on the circuit, why isn’t there more on TV?
J: I have no idea.

99: Who is your favourite comedian?
J: Dylan Moran.

99: Tell us three facts about yourself at least one of which is a lie.
J: Tall, blonde; GSOH.

12. What do you most love (or hate) about the Edinburgh Fringe?
J: It is too long (I chose hate).

13. Who would be at your ideal gig?
J: No family or friends.

14. What one thing would you do to improve comedy in the UK?
J: Free sandwiches.

99 Comedy Club London is one of London’s premier comedy clubs, and recent recipient of Chortle’s ‘Best London Club’ award 2012.

These are just two of thousands of laws on the books throughout the United States that most people, even law enforcement, don’t even know exist. Though most of these laws are no longer enforced, there is nothing that says they can’t be. So, if you’re in Alabama, whatever you do, do NOT pour salt on railroad tracks. Because it’s considered a capital offense, it would be wise not to test its legitimacy.

Unexpected, weird, and yes, dumb laws can be found in all fifty states. In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, it is illegal to sleep on top of a refrigerator outdoors. For those who enjoy the comfort of their refrigerator inside, carry on. You have nothing to worry about. However, in Kansas City, Missouri, be careful who you let into your bathroom if you have a claw bathtub. Installation of a bathtub with animal-like feet is a no-no.

For the woman who just can’t make up her mind, it would be good to know that in Joliet, Illinois, she faces being arrested for trying on more than six dresses in one store. No doubt there are many husbands who think this law is just too lenient.

You might want to have some really good criminal defense attorneys on speed dial if you’re a married man in Utah, or you might find yourself being held responsible for any crimes your adoring wife commits while in your presence. This, obviously, could cause some resentment in a marriage.

So, before you make an ugly face at a dog in Oklahoma or engage in knife throwing at men in striped suits in Kansas, it might be wise to check out the current laws and penalties. You may find it difficult to find someone to bail you out of jail until they calm down from laughing so hard.

The first series of Jinsy was excellent. With a quality cast including Harry Hill, David Tenant, Jennifer Saunders and Peter Serafinowicz.

Here are some Jinsy quotes:

• Terry Hint puts budgies in his pasties.
• Now it’s time for Sandy’s Choice, A talent competition, judged by a dog.
• I’m Mr Slightlyman – the master of balls.
• Gentlemams and Ladyfams, welcommmme…
• Warnings from the melt office. Ouch, with the occasional ooh, arghh.
• Keep your blasphemous remarks to yourself Sporral. Especially under the watchful eye of the permed owl of Veronica.
• Residents of Jinsy stand by your tessalators, now is the time to sing, sing, sing!
• Stand back, you’re dripping.
• The leaning pipes of Peter. Pipes!
• That’s why I always eat toast with my elbows.
• Smug shoes sir. They change colour depending on how happy you are.
• (song) I made a cake of your face, it didn’t take me long to bake, raisins for your eyeballs, icing on your pimples. Face cake! Face cake! Face cake!
• He is a human turd.
• Your face! Did you fall in a fire?
• Terrible conditions for the fun fungus walk, setting off from Bobs mold hut.
• I heard the crys…but I just thought it was the voices in my head.
• Diddlybits ahoy.
• Nightly bye

These are just some of the funny lines we can remember. Know of others? Add them in the section below.

Missed the first series? It is available to buy now on DVD. The show is also expected to be back for a second season so watch out for that!

Joop! Homme, the fragrance for men, have released a series of new viral clips. They feature seduction expert ‘James Charm’ giving lessons on how to woo the ladies. It’s time for an original lesson in seduction.

Here are the videos:

What do you think? Find them funny? Add your thoughts in the section below or click the YouTube videos to leave a comment there.

December 7th 2011 is the Camden Crawl Christmas Party. And in their own words:

Back for a bumper edition, be prepared to have the night of your life.

If your in London get your jingle on with mates in this alternative night out. Starting 6PM at VARIETY at The Star Of Kings, which is 126 York Way, London N1.

Entry is free!

The line-up is good again. Take a quick peek below.

MOSHI MOSHI POP QUIZ
Independent label favourites Moshi Moshi Records host a special edition of their legendary pop quiz. You will gape with awe at the odd bearded and incoherent compere and grimace at the shockingly stale prizes. Bye bye Eggheads, this is real quiz mastery.

TIERNAN DOUIEB
Back at Variety after a spectacular night compering at our launch event, Tiernan is described as a “professional comedian, qualified small person, honorary beard wearer, beverage heretic and action calligrapher!”.

DAN ANTOPOLSKI
Dan Antopolski’s surreal won him the BBC New Comedy Award in 1998 as well as Perrier Award nomination in 2001. Dan has performed at the usual comedy clubs as well as international comedy festivals, with appearances at Montreal, Melbourne and New York.

ENGINE EARZ EXPERIMENT
Best described as ‘Massive Attack for the dubstep generation;’ fusing indigenous music from around the world with dubstep and elements of drum’n’bass, electronica and alternative rock. Prepare to be blown away. Watch a few videos on YouTube to get an idea of how good they are.

URBAN NERDS DJS
Known for hosting the best warehouse raves, house parties and underground nights, heavy London party starters Urban Nerds will be in charge of the decks for the night, spinning the best in dubstep, grime, electro, hip-hop, drum & bass, reggae and beyond.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thecamdencrawl

You may have caught the viral ads on your telebox recently, helping to promote the Ginger Joe’s alcholic drink. They have got some funny ginger people to work their magic.

Watch and enjoy my fury friends.

What do you think to them? You can add your opinions with 30 seconds of your time below, or if you have a YouTube account you can leave your thoughts on the video pages.

P.S. laughing at these people is gingerism, you should be ashamed.

I was surprised to find out this is Mark Watson’s first DVD release, he seems to have been a good performer for years. Some things are worth waiting for though, so how does he do?

Please note although I don’t tell his jokes in this article, there are some spoilers so please leave if you don’t want to know a thing about it!

Ok now I’ve got the spoiler alert out the way…The gig begins in an excellent engaging way. Mark sitting quietly at a laptop on the stage, typing on a big screen things about people as they walk in. Loved this start and had those who go in early already laughing.

Once everyone had made their way in he still doesn’t appear on the stage, but somewhere else, I won’t spoil it where, you’ll just have to watch and see! Once again more off the cuff comedy engaging the audience.

Moments later and he finally makes his way to the stage to begin his stand-up routine. 1 minute in and it is a stark reminder this boy talks fast, and mumbles quite a bit. However I do like this, it is a different style to the clear cut Jimmy Carr’s and Sean Locke’s who never misplace a word. Mark’s stuttery delivery makes him even funnier!

If you haven’t seen him before, his stand-up is one of story-telling. With no props, no stupid dances, no crazy voices. Some of his gags to drag on a smidgen but generally his timing is good, and the laughs flow nicely. During the DVD I did laugh out loud constantly. He is a very good stand-up comedian.

Another thing I like about his style of comedy, is that it is often mocking himself and self deprecating. Rather then cracking jokes about minorities he goes the other way, and takes the piss out of his own personality and life!

The performance was 70 minutes long, a reasonable length I felt. It could have perhaps done with being broken up in the middle though as it is just pure talking, and it can make it begin to feel like a slight drag towards the finish. Which, on that topic, wasn’t his strongest point. His finishing joke really needed to be funnier, it was good, but it wasn’t the grandest of finishes.

There are quite a few extras including a tour diary. Randomly, their is also a clip of a man proposing to his girlfriend at the live show! Of all the extras the best one by far is a 20 minute video of Mark performing at the Bloomsbury Theatre a few years back, very funny and a nice addition to the DVD.

Overall I really enjoyed the DVD. Mark Watson’s performance was very funny, he is a top stand up comedian, it’s a good length feature, and a nice few extras to boot. Recommended. 8.5/10.

It is available to buy now from Amazon for £6.72.

Release date: November 28th 2011
Studio: 2entertain

The one-line master is back with another DVD, it is from his latest tour ‘Joke-amotive’. His previous releases have been well received, so how do this one do?

I pop the DVD in and the menu quickly loads up, it feels like a kids program. Very cheesy graphics with corny background music, this is certainly a Tim Vine creation!

The set follows on the corniness, carrying on the theme, it looks good though, a small but interesting set. He opens with a funny song, as he brings us all aboard the punaway train. This is definitely like something from a kids show!

Through-out the performance the catchy songs reappear, often completely random and pointless, which is what makes this style of comedy funny.

As for his one-liners – he throws them out a great speed! Even take a sip of your drink and you can find you miss a gag. His jokes are aided with lots of stage props also. Some of his jokes I found myself literally with my head in my hands saying “oh my god, that joke is so bad”, the sort of one-liner your dad would come out with at a party. But somehow I still chuckle. Plenty of other gags though are genuinely good and I felt more respectable and comfortable with myself for laughing at them! I have no idea how many jokes he told in total in this performance, but I know it was a huge amount.

No random shouts from the audience, or any kind of heckling in this gig, not that sort of performance. If you are after something fun and harmless for a laugh, perhaps around Christmas, this is ideal for all the family (it is only classified PG so is safe for all ages).

On the DVD you do also get a few extras, which include 3 short-flims made by Vine, their is also a tour movie and another song from the gig not in the main feature.

Conclusion
This certainly won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. If you like edgy comedy about adult subjects this certainly won’t be for you, the fact it’s a PG says it all. But if you are after some family-friendly fun and are a fan of one-liners you will love this. And with some many gags this is good value for money. I rate it 7.5/10.

It is available to buy at Amazon UK for £6.99. Watch the trailer below.

Release date: November 21st 2011
Studio: Spirit Entertainment Limited

Stand-up American comedian Reginald D. Hunter has taken his live tour to DVD with this release. It was recorded at the HMV Hammersmith Apollo in London.

This is the first time I have seen any of this comedians solo work. So I went with an open mind, although having seen him on various TV programs I do like his uniqueness, quite a stumbley (I appreciate that is not a real word!) delivery, he’s not smooth talking but it works well. And he’s came across as a nice guy. I looked forward to this.

The big man strides onto the stage and says his hellos. After only about 30 seconds of being on stage a member of the audience shouts something. It was a quality reply from Reginald which earned some major laughs, a very good start I felt.

On with the gig then as he begins his stories. Starting with race. Then continuing on with race, for what seemed like a long time. I checked the time on the DVD and I been watching for over 20minutes. I got a tad worried that was the only topic he would talk about! I expected some but perhaps not this many. However the material was essentially quite funny, just perhaps a bit ‘all at once’ rather then being spread through the performance.

My worries on race proved unfounded as he moved on to some funny observations about British people, and also his own American people. He then moved on to the topic of sex, once again I felt he stayed on it too long. Funny material but the same topic gets annoying after so long. In fact during the performance, more of his material was about sex rather then race!

His topics of choice weren’t quite what I expected. Having seen him on the television before on programs such as ‘Have I Got News For You’ I anticipated him being more political and perhaps slightly thought provoking whilst still being funny. Turns out he just likes to talk about black people and sex! Slightly disappointing, as I did find the Reginald D. Hunter I saw on the TV slightly funnier.

One thing I was impressed by was his willingness to say stuff that many comedians wouldn’t. Some of the responses from the audience (notably the female members) were brilliant, one woman’s jaw almost hit the floor at one point her mouth was so wide! However I didn’t feel he was saying the things he was just to be controversial, Frankie Boyle says stuff purely to be as gross and shocking as he can, whereas I felt Reginald used the shock factor moderately and didn’t over cook it. This aspect I really liked.

Conclusion
Overall I would recommend this DVD. Don’t expect the Reginald you may have seen on shows like ‘Have I Got News For You’ though. I do wish the topics were a bit more mixed up in the gig, and he perhaps covered slightly more topics. However I did find the material he had funny, and I like the few ‘gasp’ moments he produced. Overall I would rate it 7/10.

The DVD is available now, it costs £6.81 to buy from Amazon UK.