I fought Oxford University, and the law won.
Some years ago I took Oxford University to the small claims court for removing and destroying some of my property. The case was heard in front of a District Judge in Oxford, and two of the witnesses were the staff who had done the removal and destruction.

The judge heard their evidence, asked questions and then said "Well, I don't think there is anything else we need to ask you. You can go."

As the door closed behind them he said "There is no evidence that the item they destroyed was yours. That could be cleared up if we asked them about it, but they have left now. Case dismissed."

I suppose the chances of anyone beating Oxford University in court were always going to be slim (the number of lies they told and threats they made about potential costs beforehand were remarkable too) but I took some comfort that the staff costs for the four witnesses they had to produce, and their preparation costs, must have far exceeded the amount I was claiming for them.

It was still a complete and utter stitch up, though.
(ubergeekian, Fri 3 Aug 2012, 16:53, 8 replies)

and what was it that they had removed?

( Windy Pig I'm naturally quite suspicious about the moon., Fri 3 Aug 2012, 17:07, closed)

Are you Jeffrey Archer?
Did they remove your shadow?
(username failed moderation, Fri 3 Aug 2012, 17:26, closed)

Were you as cagey in court about the nature of the “property”?
Was it a foot-high stack of Razzles?
(Eukanuba, Sat 4 Aug 2012, 9:18, closed)

It wasn't particularly embarassing
but it was very distinctive and the judge may still be alive.
(ubergeekian, Sat 4 Aug 2012, 10:34, closed)

Oxford uni are cunts
My mate was doing research at Oxford uni and was attacked by a workmate when they went for a post work drink.
They tried to have the whole event hushed up, offered her no support, allowed him to ridicule her in research meetings, and when the police reported that they weren't going to press charges, they contacted the university before her, because their reputation is far more precious than her's. The whole Oxford system is based on sexism, privilege, and secretive practices, in this day and age it's fucking disgraceful.
( gadjie, Sun 5 Aug 2012, 12:57, closed)

Harsh but fair.
I've recently learned how they dealt with a lecturer who was harassing female students. Let's just say that the welfare of his victims does not seem to have been top priority.
(ubergeekian, Mon 6 Aug 2012, 17:52, closed)

Oxford academic
( The Mock TurtIe ™ --- Thinks you are a cunt, on, Mon 6 Aug 2012, 21:28, closed)

the academic any hierarchical
(EvilTerran rearranged his letters on, Wed 8 Aug 2012, 17:58, closed)