Legal Definitions - malesworn

Malesworn

The term malesworn refers to an individual who has broken an oath or sworn falsely. It describes someone who has committed perjury or otherwise violated a solemn promise made under oath.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of being malesworn:

• Example 1: A Witness in Court

  During a criminal trial, a witness takes an oath to "tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." If that witness intentionally provides false testimony to mislead the court, they would be considered malesworn. Their actions constitute perjury, a serious offense where an oath has been violated.

• Example 2: A Public Official

  A newly elected mayor takes an oath of office, promising to uphold the constitution and faithfully execute the duties of their position. If the mayor later engages in corrupt practices, such as accepting bribes or abusing power for personal gain, they have violated their solemn promise. In this scenario, the mayor would be malesworn, having broken the oath they swore to the public.

• Example 3: A Professional Oath

  A doctor takes the Hippocratic Oath, pledging to do no harm and to act in the best interest of their patients. If this doctor knowingly performs unnecessary procedures for financial profit, endangering their patients' health, they have violated the fundamental principles of their professional oath. By betraying this sacred trust and promise, the doctor would be considered malesworn.