When a person is called upon to give their statement, deposition, or sworn testimony to any government official, police officer, or in a court of law, they are expected to tell the truth.
When an individual is under oath, they are required by law to tell the truth.
To be charged and found guilty of perjury, it must be proven that an individual willfully lied.
When perjury is applied to a legal case the lie that has told must have some significant bearing on the case.
For instance, just telling a white lie on the stand will not necessarily bring forth a perjury charge. But if the lie is substantial and could help turn or sway the jury’s opinion regarding the final outcome of a case, the charge of perjury may be implied. This is how perjury also is known by the phrase, “lying under oath.”
It’s hard to prove that someone is lying on purpose. Many people may not tell the truth, but it may be due to simple ignorance, a poor memory, or a lack of the facts. It may not be that the person who is lying is simply being willfully deceiving.
However, if there is clear evidence that someone is committing perjury intentionally, charges may follow.
Perjury laws, rulings, and regulations vary from state to state. Therefore, the terms that define perjury may vary.
It is important that people choose to tell the truth, especially if they are on the witness stand, to ensure that justice is served.
If you have been charged with perjury, you should seek the advice and counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney.