Chapter on Judicial Etiquette

The judge ought to be strong without harshness, gentle without weakness, forbearing, deliberate, and perceptive. His court should be situated in the middle of the town and be spacious, and he must deal even-handedly with the two litigants in his gaze, his speech, their seating, and the manner in which they are admitted. Jurists of the various schools should attend his sessions, and he should consult them regarding any matter that proves difficult for him¹.

It is unlawful for him to adjudicate while he is greatly angered, in need of relieving himself, suffering severe hunger or thirst, weighed down by anxiety, boredom, lethargy, drowsiness, painful cold, or oppressive heat. Should he nevertheless judge and reach the correct verdict, the ruling remains valid. Accepting a bribe is forbidden, and so is accepting a gift, except from someone who used to give him gifts before his appointment—provided that person has no case pending before him.

It is recommended that he pronounce judgment only in the presence of witnesses. His ruling is not carried out in his own favour, nor in favour of anyone whose testimony would be inadmissible on his behalf.

If a claim is made against a woman who lives in seclusion and therefore does not attend court, she is instructed to appoint an agent; and if she must take an oath, an emissary is dispatched to administer it to her—the same procedure applies to a sick person.