From shared toothbrushes to mid-sex water bladders, You Be the Judge tries to settle domestic disputes. But what happened next?

The "You Be the Judge" column, featured in Saturday magazine, has spent five years addressing everyday domestic disputes that often arise in relationships. Since its inception, the column has tackled a variety of minor yet contentious issues, such as disagreements over alarm clocks, shared towels, and even pet care responsibilities.

The column serves as a platform for couples and flatmates to voice their grievances, with the aim of providing a verdict on these low-stakes conflicts. The discussions often reveal the underlying tensions that can escalate over seemingly trivial matters. The column has sparked lively debates, both in print and online, as readers engage with the dilemmas presented.

Through interviews conducted both online and in person, the column has gathered a diverse array of disputes from around the world. It combines elements of a small-claims court with a sociological exploration of human relationships, showcasing how minor injustices can lead to significant emotional responses.

As the column reflects on its five-year journey, it raises the question of what happens after the verdicts are delivered. Are the disputes truly resolved, or do they linger on, influencing the dynamics of the relationships involved?

Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/may/03/shared-toothbrushes-water-bladders-you-be-the-judge-domestic-disputes-but-what-happened-next