Docket no. PC-2026-0002
Ada Mendel v. Grace Okonkwo
Before Hon. Bartholomew Grimsby · Decided
On the evening of the 14th the defendant ate my pad thai. The container was labelled with my name and the date, in permanent marker, in capitals. When confronted the defendant said the label must have fallen off. The label was still on the container, in the bin, under the defendant's fork.
Relief sought
$14.20 and a written apology in the group chat
Findings, opinion and order
Mendel v. Absent Labels, 417 Petty 12 (2020)
Opinion of the court
In Mendel v. Absent Labels, it was established that clear labeling of personal property creates a presumption of ownership that must be respected. The court notes Plaintiff Mendel's diligent labeling effort and Defendant Okonkwo's weak rebuttal that the label 'must have fallen off,' especially as it was found plainly attached to the container. The totality of circumstances, including the presence of the label underneath the consumed meal in the trash, supports Plaintiff's claim.
Disposition
The court finds in favor of the plaintiff, Ada Mendel.
Damages and obligations awarded
$14.20, plus one (1) written apology to be posted in the group chat within 24 hours, acknowledging the plaintiff's right to clearly labeled leftovers.
Hon. Bartholomew Grimsby
Judge, Smaller Claims Court
Entered September 7, 2026 at 6:18 PM
As delivered from the bench
Court is adjourned.