Lastly, the detainee appears before an Iraqi judge, who in turn dismisses about half of the cases.

His family bought his release with bribes to Iraqi judges, and he was back home by the time the war began.

It should be left to Iraqi judges to decide what is most appropriate to bring peace and reconciliation to their war-ravaged country.

Over the weekend an Iraqi judge ordered his arrest on the counterfeiting charges.

Seeing him brought to account before an Iraqi judge struck similar emotional chords, only with greater power.

"It's an occupation-supported effort with Iraqi judges and lawyers."

Eventually, he said, speaking on condition that he not be named, the Iraqi judges would probably ask the Americans to step aside.

For more specifics, they referred reporters to an Iraqi judge, who also declined to specify charges.

Iraqi judges are paid $900 to $1,400 a month, he said.

Trials are essential, but Iraqi judges cannot carry the burden alone.