Last updated on: 2/28/2008 | Author: ProCon.org

Lawrence K. Karlton, JD Biography

Title:
Judge of the U.S. District Court of Eastern District of California
Position:
Con to the question "Should the Words “under God” Be in the US Pledge of Allegiance?"
Reasoning:

“Because this court is bound by the Ninth Circuit’s holding in [Newdow v. U.S. Congress], it follows that the school districts’ policies violate the Establishment Clause.”

U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California ruling, Sep. 14, 2005
Theoretical Expertise Ranking:
    Experts
Individuals with JD's, or equivalent advanced degrees in fields relevant to government and constitutional law. Also top-level government officials (such as foreign leaders, US presidents, Founding Fathers, Supreme Court Justices, members of legislative bodies, cabinet members, military leaders, etc.) with positions relevant to government and constitutional law.
Involvement and Affiliations:
  • Assumed senior status for the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California, 2000
  • Served as chief judge for the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California, 1983-1990
  • Confirmed by the Senate for the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California, 1979
  • Nominated by Jimmy Carter for the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California, 1979
  • Judge, Superior Court of California, Sacramento County, 1976-1979
  • Private practice, Sacramento, California, 1962-1976
  • Civilian legal officer, Sacramento Army Depot, 1960-1962
  • U.S. Army, 1958-1960
Education:
  • JD, Columbia Law School, 1958
Other:
  • Ruled the Pledge of Allegiance is unconstitutional, citing earlier 9th Circuit Decision, Sep. 14, 2005