The analysis shows that although Puritan society was dominated by males and the all-male system of magistrates, jurors, and judges had a great potential for legalized sex discrimination, women brought before the courts received surprisingly fair treatment. Women could not hold public office and were exposed to many kinds of menial abuse. However, they committed far fewer crimes than men, representing just over 10 percent of those accused of felonies and homicides. However, the attitudes toward women found in sermons and literature did not affect courts' rulings. Thus, the criminal justice system did not prejudge the guilt of women or impose special burdens on them. Therefore, the historical evidence does not support the view that the criminal justice system of that era practiced sex discrimination. Tables, figures, chapter reference notes, index, and appended additional findings.