Judge's recital of pledge leads to recusal (AJC) [View All]

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Judge's recital of pledge leads to recusal

Defense attorney filed official complaint

As he does each time he begins court proceedings, (Gwinnett County Judge Mark A.) Lewis turns to the flag behind his bench and recites the pledge. He invites those in the courtroom to stand and join in but does not require it. (SNIP)

But in a letter dated March 17, Atlanta-based attorney Donald A. Weissman, who is representing the defendant, told Lewis he objected to beginning court with "a public declaration of national loyalty."

He asked Lewis to stop the practice or recuse himself from the case.

http://www.ajc.com/news/content/metro/gwinnett/stories/0406gwxpledge.html