Reply To: Questions on Yoreh Deah, Choshen Mishpat

Charlie:

Regarding the renter whose landlord is ripping him off.

This is largely beyond my area of study. I’ll mention some ideas though.

Assuming that according to Jewish law you are entitled to not pay him, the question is, are you obligated to not sue him in secular courts even though it will likely cause you a loss?

According to Rema 4:1, you are not allowed to take judgment into your hands by appealing to secular courts, even in a situation where you are otherwise allowed to. You are required to get permission from beis din, and the beis din should allow you to go to the courts if it is necessary.