Halachic Highlights

Question: Which side of the window should one light neiros Chanukah?

Short Answer: Some poskim rule that it should be lit on the left side of the window (from the inside looking out). Others say it does not make a difference.

Damaged In My House

Question: Is a person liable for accidental damage that he causes to a person who enters his house without permission?

Short Answer: There is a dispute whether the homeowner is liable for accidental damage where he is aware of the trespasser. The Shulchan Aruch appears to hold that he is exempt from liability.

Question: Is a driver liable for damage caused by the car that he is driving? What about if he is riding in his self-driving car that damages?

Question: Is a person liable for deleting files from another person’s computer?

Short Answer: Yes, even if done accidentally, this is not considered “hezeik she’eino nikar” and therefore the deleter is liable.

Question: Is a guest who does not show up at a wedding that he said he would attend liable to the baal simchah for the cost of his meal?

Question: Does a child who breaks a window need to pay the owner when he reaches bar mitzvah?

Short Answer: No, he does not need to pay, according to many poskim, including the Shulchan Aruch. However, in many circumstances, it is “lifnim mi’shuras ha’din” (equitable and above the letter of the law) for him to pay when he gets older.