Perjury: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition and Consequences

Definition & meaning

Perjury is the act of intentionally providing false information while under oath. This can occur during official proceedings where a person is required to testify, such as in court, administrative hearings, or depositions. A statement is considered made under oath if it is given on a legal form that warns about the consequences of lying or if the individual acknowledges that their statement is sworn and is aware of its implications. Perjury is taken seriously in both state and federal law, and individuals found guilty may face significant penalties.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A witness in a criminal trial testifies that they saw the defendant at the scene of the crime, knowing this is false. If caught, they may be charged with perjury.

Example 2: A person submits a tax return and falsely claims deductions they did not qualify for, signing the return under penalty of perjury. This can lead to criminal charges (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

State Perjury Definition Penalties
California Defined under Penal Code § 118. Felony, up to four years in prison.
New York Defined under Penal Law § 210.10. Class D felony, up to seven years in prison.
Texas Defined under Penal Code § 37.03. Third-degree felony, up to ten years in prison.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
False statement Any untrue statement, not necessarily made under oath. Perjury requires an oath and intent to deceive.
Contempt of court Disobeying or disrespecting the court's authority. Contempt does not require a false statement; perjury does.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you may be involved in a situation related to perjury, consider the following steps:

  • Review any statements you have made under oath for accuracy.
  • If you suspect someone else has committed perjury, document the evidence.
  • Consult a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that may help you navigate related legal processes.

Quick facts

  • Typical Penalties: Varies by state; can include fines and imprisonment.
  • Jurisdiction: Both state and federal courts.
  • Common Forms: Affidavits, declarations, tax returns.

Key takeaways

FAQs

Perjury specifically involves false statements made under oath, while false statements can be made in any context.