To the editor:
It is the practice by law in many U.S. courts that oaths are required by placing a hand on the Bible and stating to tell "the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help me God."
Swearing on the Bible supposedly enforces telling the truth. This is comparable with placing a hand on the judge's head and swearing to tell "the whole truth...so help me judge."
A lawsuit has been filed in Raleigh, N.C., by the ACLU and a Muslim woman claiming that it is unconstitutional to require the exclusive use of the Bible. She (ACLU) wants to use the Quran.
Why have U.S. courts bullied people into taking an oath when testifying? Courts have the capricious, silly practice that an oath must occur in order to charge perjury and/or contempt of court. No oath, no perjury.
Courts knowingly allow professional liars to ply their trade. (Lawyers, paid expert witnesses who are sexual perverts, phony doctors or any other expert that can be manufactured).
There is a simple solution to put an end to this kangaroo court practice. Adopt a nationwide law to terminate all courtroom oaths involving a trial and a new law that simply states, "If you get caught lying in any due process, you will pay."
Why do lawyers not take an oath in court when they represent clients?
I prefer to put my hand on the judge's head to tell the truth, "So help me judge."
Charles D. Sullivan
Waterloo