I mean at court or a tribunal hearing your asked by the judge to swear in affirming that all that you say will be truth.You have the option to swear on the bible or not.But you must affirm that you are telling the truth.If somone wants to lie they will probably lie even at the point of being sworn in..so whats the point?
2006-06-20 22:27:26 · 3 answers · asked by braddles001 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
There's not a good, solid reason for this.
But basically, it's like getting your first official response on record that you are going to respond truthfully. Then later if it is found that you haven't, perjury offenses can be brought against you on the grounds that you were sworn in to tell the truth.
Think of it as you publicly acknowledging that you are required to tell the truth. It doesn't matter if you're lying or not at this point. The fact that you are stating it for the record is recognizing that you are consciously aware of what you're about to be held accountable for.
it might be silly, but it's necessary.
2006-06-20 22:34:39 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 1⤋
It makes a clear dividing line between those points where you can be prosecuted for lying and those you probably can't be. It is also mean to impress upon people the importance of telling the truth.
Think of it as a kind of notice. By giving the oath/affirmation, you are being put on notice that your statements are subject to perjury charges if you intentionally lie.
2006-06-21 09:56:51 · answer #2 · answered by coragryph 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
perjury is a very serious law if broken...ask Clinton...but..they really don't care if you swear on the Bible or not...all they want is you to formally recognize that you have said that you WILL tell the truth so that WHEN you lie and they can prove it..they can screw you over...and you can't say a word.
2006-06-21 06:02:30 · answer #3 · answered by juanes addicion 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋