This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

The state legislature of Arizona put a gloss on the oath in this case by subjecting to a prosecution for perjury and for discharge from public office anyone who took the oath and who knowingly became or remained a member of a subversive organization (Communist Party). Elfbrandt (P), a teacher and a Quaker, decided she could not in good conscience take the oath, not knowing what it meant and not having any chance to get a hearing at which its precise scope and meaning could be determined. This suit for declaratory relief followed.

The legal issues presented in this case will be displayed here.

The court's holding and decision will be displayed here.

Legal analysis from Dean's Law Dictionary will be displayed here.