Having had a chance at the executive branch of government and dramatically declining a run at the legislative one on CNN's "Larry King Live," former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura may soon try the judicial branch. Or at least what passes as one these days on television -- a court show.

He reportedly is "deep in negotiations" with Twentieth Television, according to Television Week magazine, for a show that would start in the fall of 2009. If signed, Ventura would join other distinguished television jurists like Judge Judy and the oeuvre's original, Judge Wapner of "The People's Court," in adjudicating small claims on the small screen.

It's easy to see why Twentieth Television, a program syndicator, would be interested in Ventura. Compared to lesser-knowns like Judges David Young and Maria Lopez, he brings national name recognition, if not star appeal. And, perhaps most importantly, he also has the TV traits that are a job requirement in today's "Crossfire" culture of providing great theater by playing to the camera, getting to the point and making snap judgments.

Of course, those traits are far from the wisdom, impartiality and listening skills needed for those who wear the robe in America's real courtrooms. But daytime court shows, while considered part of the reality genre, are really dramas played out with real people. The more extreme they -- and their claims -- are, the better. And if the judge just happens to be more over the top -- or, say, happens to be a colorful character who wore feather boas in the 'rassling ring before wrestling with the Legislature and the press -- well, so much the better.

So Atticus Finch, the hero lawyer of Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," need not apply. But that's OK, as exemplars of just jurisprudence like him should probably be saved for the most important legalities. And it's probably not a good idea anyway to have a Judge Ventura adjudicate a capital case after famously stating "until you've hunted man you haven't hunted yet."

The opportunity seems to be a perfect fit for the former governor of Minnesota, whose name was reportedly inspired by a California place name and who now spends much of his time living in Mexico. Most of the court shows tape in Hollywood, and a week's worth can be filmed in a day.

And who knows? The anti-Atticus may turn out to be a great judge.

After all, he's already shown the great judgment to spare the state a Senate run that might have made professional wresting look tame.