I’d Like $100 an Hour, Judge, but I’m Flexible

A computer software consultant who responded to a jury summons by demanding $100 an hour for his services showed up for duty, after a judge’s warning compelled him to lower his rate.

David Williamson, like everyone else in the San Antonio jury pool, will get $40 a day, plus mileage.

“I don’t know if there was a misunderstanding about his obligation, but he is doing his duty and complying,” U.S. District Judge Fred Biery said. Williamson, of San Antonio, was called in to be part of the jury pool for a seven-week trial. He sent the court an invoice for $16,800 for “court-ordered professional services for the entire month of August 2002.”

He also warned officials that the bill would start accruing interest if not paid by the end of August.

And then came the topper: “If you would like to meet and discuss this, please have his honor call and schedule an appointment.”