Spouse Law: Science Fiction Romance

Only a spouse or close relation may represent you in the court of law," the magisterial processor said, peering seriously over her blindfold at Rand. "You have got to be kidding me." "No. It is designed so that persons with bonds and family ties, who are naturally more socially-guided, have a greater chance of avoiding the law." "But all my family is across the galaxy! It would take them years to get here, and you have scheduled my trial to begin in two weeks!" "Then I suggest you visit the love district." "I'm about to get locked up for the rest of my natural life or until some relative travels here and launches an appeal, which guarantees nothing, and you're telling me to go find a hooker?!" "No. That would be the sex district. I'm telling you to go find someone to love you, to marry them, and to have them represent you." "Do you even hear what you're saying??"


Inspiration: A comedy sketch about it being improbable that Dr. Doolittle is represented by his wife as a lawyer.
Story potential: Medium-high
Notes: Could be fun, in that odd little romance-science fiction niche. Would need a second plot about some threat to the female who he persuades to marry him.