Afternoon TV will come to order, Judge Judy presiding. According to TV Guide, the long-running court show starring Judy Sheindlin has been renewed through 2017 by CBS Television Distribution.

RELATED: Judge Judy Gets Sued Over China

Judge Judy may be one of the most successful women in daytime, but that doesn’t mean she can escape a lawsuit. According to TMZ, Judge Judy is being sued by the ex-wife of her producer Randy Douthit, who claims “the jurist and Douthit entered into a fraudulent scheme to screw her out of the china and flatware, which she values at $514,421.14.”

Judge Judy told TMZ

"I have not seen any complaint by the former Mrs. Douthit, however, I don't owe this lady a cent.  And if this 50-year-old woman would spend her time more productively at trying to find a job, instead of abusing the judicial system with frivolous lawsuits, we would all be a lot better off."

With Oprah Winfrey abdicating her daytime throne on May 25th, who will take her place? Not heir apparent Susan Lucci, now that All My Children has been cancelled. No, the new monarch just may come from the courtroom! Judge Judy Sheindlin has signed a deal with CBS TV Distribution through 2015 for Judge Judy. CTD President John Nogawski extols her merits to Deadline:

“Judy is in a class by herself. For 15 years, she’s delivered one of the highest-rated shows in all of syndication. She’s at the top of her game, and we’re excited to be in business with daytime’s #1 star.” 
 

What do you think daytime viewers? Are you ready for a judge to ascend the throne?

Judge Judy Sheindlin–who was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center with a serious condition on March 30–will be released March 31, according The Huffington Post. Reportedly, Sheindlin is “feeling much better.” Taping of Judge Judy will resume on April 12.