Quick Summary
True Crime Series 23 – A homeowner sues for expensive vet bills after a bargain‑hunting handyman allegedly scattered sharp objects across her backyard, creating a hazardous mess.
About This Program
Programme Overview
Series 23 is a compelling true‑crime episode that follows a seemingly ordinary dispute that escalates into a courtroom battle. A British homeowner, seeking an affordable solution for garden maintenance, hires a local handyman. The agreement quickly unravels when the handyman allegedly leaves a scattering of sharp objects across the backyard, creating a hazardous environment that leads to a serious injury to the family’s pet. The resulting veterinary expenses become the centre of a legal claim, turning a domestic repair job into a vivid illustration of consumer rights and personal safety.
What to Expect
The episode presents a detailed, step‑by‑step reconstruction of the incident, combining on‑location footage, interviews with the affected woman, her veterinarian, and legal experts. Viewers will see how the presence of hidden sharp objects in a garden—a space traditionally associated with leisure—can have unforeseen and costly consequences. The narrative delves into the evidence gathering process, the role of expert testimony on animal welfare, and the legal arguments surrounding liability for a contractor’s negligence.
Legal and Ethical Angles
Beyond the immediate drama of the lawsuit, the programme explores broader themes relevant to UK audiences: the responsibilities of tradespeople, the rights of consumers to safe workmanship, and the impact of seemingly minor oversights on animal health. Legal commentators explain how the claim for veterinary bills fits within the framework of personal injury and property damage law, offering insight into how similar cases are assessed in British courts.
Why Watch
True Crime viewers will find this episode a fresh departure from high‑profile criminal investigations, focusing instead on everyday justice and the ripple effects of a single careless act. The story resonates with homeowners, pet lovers, and anyone interested in the intersection of consumer protection and animal welfare. Its clear, factual storytelling and relatable subject matter make it a must‑watch for anyone seeking an in‑depth look at how a simple home‑improvement job can turn into a legal showdown on British television.
Judge Judy broadcasts on True Crime at 11:05am, Wednesday, 5 November 2025.