116 Selected Reform Responsa
would apply to war criminals, terrorists, or others who may be tried in the United States or in the State of Israel . Jewish attorneys should consider themselves within the framework of tradition if they are appointed to such tasks or wish to volunteer for them. No one can, of course, be forced into such a position against their will. Attorneys help to assure that justice is done and that th: accused has a reasonable opportunity to defend herself/himself within the framework of our judicial system.“Justice, justice shall you pursue”(Deut 16.20) or“in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor”(Lev 19.15) will continue to be our guide.
Walter Jacob
QUESTION: What is the status of the minor in Jewish law regarding punishment for serious offenses?(S. Levin, Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania )
ANSWER: It is clear from a wide variety of statements that the father is completely responsible for the acts of his minor children. So minors would not be punished no matter what their crime, but the father would face whatever monetary penalty is appropriate(M. K. 8.4; Yeb. 99b; Hag. 2b; Git . 23a; B. M. 10b; Tu and Shulhan Arukh Hoshen Mishpat 182.1, 348.81, 235.19).
In a similar vein, the father is compensated for any injury t0 his minor children, including any humiliation sustained by them (B. K. 86b). The value lost was figured as if they could still be sold into slavery, as was possible in an earlier period(B. K. 97b).
In the case of the seduction of minor females, the fine went t0 the father(Deut. 22.28). If the culprit married her, he paid no fin¢ (Ex. 20.15). In case of rape, he had to pay fine, marry her and