Expert: Ovadiah ben Avraham - 5/31/2006

Question

-------------------------

Followup To

Question -
Dear Future Rabbi,

I have a dispute with a Ukrainian government official, a Jew, and would opt for a rabbinical court.

I'm unsure, however, whether Beth Din has jurisdiction over the case. On one hand, Beth Din's jurisdiction theoretically covers
all affairs of Jews, and all disputes between them. On other hand, my opponent is a ranking official, and my dispute with him stems from his acts in that capacity.

I contend that my opponent twists the local law to squeeze a bribe from me. Indeed, local courts ruled in my favor on several occasions related to the dispute, but the official disregards the court judgments. That leads me to believe that the actions are his personal rather than magisterial.

My question to the Rabbi is, Does the rabbinical court have jurisdiction over all cases involving Jews, or are the Jews acting as officials exempt from Beth Din jurisdiction?


Best,

Vadim

Answer -
Dear Current Vadim,
Let me pose a few questions which will better help me answer your question:

1) Are you Jewish?
2) Do you live in a major city with a large Bes Din?
3) Does the dispute have anything to do with Judaism?

Thanks and I'll answer back after I get your answers. Shalom!

Shalom,

Thanks for responding.
Both me and my opponent are Jewish.
There is a minor Beth Din in the city, and they told me they cannot judge the case because my opponent is an official rather than a private person. I believe their answer is politically motivated, unfortunately.
The dispute is about business and government permits. Actually, the fellow is simply extorting a bribe.

Best,

Vadim

Answer
I think, given the circumstances you have cited, the Jewish Bes Din would not have jurisdiction over this problem. They generally only deal with Jewish issues, especially the smaller ones. I would, however, make his perceived inappropriate actions known to them so as to permit them to sanction the individual if appropriate and prevent further problems. Shalom!