Comment by Nelson on May 6, 2011 at 12:08am

only a few southern states do that any more or have for a while now.

most states just ask you to raise your hand and swear to tell the truth. there's not even a bible in the room.

the myth persists because of movies and television.

Comment by Raven on May 6, 2011 at 12:12am

Ah. Thank you. I've never actually even been in a courtroom so I just assumed they still did that :)

Comment by Nelson on May 6, 2011 at 12:13am

most people assume the same. no worries.

Comment by Beefaice on May 6, 2011 at 12:53am

If it still happened, I would say, 'yes I do swear, but not on that thing.'

Comment by BryanPaul on May 6, 2011 at 1:21am

I did it. I'm in Louisiana and they do it here. I just put my hand on it and said I do. The south takes that book to heart and would probably find me in contempt if I said anything out of line. There are times when you just gotta let it go, lol. If they found me in contempt, who would I complain to? Besides I'd have to pay the fine first or spend the 30 days in jail. Just say "I do" and move on.

Comment by Raven on May 6, 2011 at 1:24am

I would sue them and keep appealing until it reached someone logical.

Comment by Nelson on May 6, 2011 at 1:24am

yep. it sucks in the few southern states that still do it. totally an establishment clause violation.

Comment by Raven on May 6, 2011 at 1:25am

And how could they find you in contempt? Contempt of what? How is that illegal? How could they fine you or send you to jail?

Comment by Nelson on May 6, 2011 at 1:26am

you're directed by the court to swear on the bible. if you refuse you're in contempt. the fines and jail time are as a result of the charge of contempt. sucks....

Comment by Raven on May 6, 2011 at 1:29am

Well what if I was in that situation and wanted to swear on a Torah? (raised Jewish) Would I still be in contempt? If so, how is that legal to say one religious text is better than another?

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