Yechiel Michel Epstein

“ If, however, there are others who can also fill the position, he is praiseworthy to refuse to act as judge. In fact, any judge who chooses to pursue compromise between the parties instead of acting as judge will benefit himself, as he prevents others from having enmity against him, as well as avoiding the possibility of false oaths and the misappropriation of funds arising from incorrect rulings. Even if the law in a given case is as clear as the sun, it is always preferable to strive to have all parties reach an out-of-court settlement. ”

“ Section 2 If a case comes before him that appears similar to a previous case that he had heard, where he had ruled according to the direction of another scholar, he should not be quick to apply the same ruling. If there is another in the city who is greater than him in knowledge, he should consult his opinion, for the case may not be same in its particulars. ”

“ Likewise, just like over-fermented dough will not produce good bread, deliberations extended past their need will also not produce a quality verdict. Once the matter has been clarified sufficiently, the verdict should proclaimed at once [IS THIS CORRECT?] . On the other hand, a judge with an arrogant heart, who rushes to judgment without properly considering a case until it is as clear as the sun is a fool, wicked, and arrogant: A fool, because he believes himself to be a sage while he remains in his ignorance ”