Oath to tell the truth

[Art_Belair]

When did the practice of putting your hand on the Bible to testify in court first enter our court system and what federal law mandates this practice?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

You can swear or merely affirm to tell the truth -- there is no requirement to use a bible. It is state or federal law.

 

[KlyxKlysma]

What would be the punishment if you refuse to answer, or answer no?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

What would be the punishment if you refuse to answer, or answer no?

Are you telling me that you are asking what punishment would be not to affirm/swear to tell the truth? My understanding is that you might be in contempt of court. I've never had this problem and would think that if you refuse to affirm to tell the truth, you're asking for trouble. Why would you even think of doing such a thing?