Perjury may not sound as serious as crimes like assault or theft, but in California, lying under oath can carry severe legal consequences. If you’ve been accused of perjury, it’s important to understand how these cases are prosecuted, what defenses may be available, and why having a seasoned attorney from Chambers & Ball can make a critical difference in your future.
What Counts as Perjury in California
Perjury occurs when someone willfully makes a false statement while under oath in an official setting. This can happen in:
- Court testimony
- Depositions
- Affidavits
- Other legal proceedings where an oath is required
It’s not enough for a statement to simply be false—prosecutors must show that the defendant intentionally lied about a material fact, meaning the falsehood could influence the outcome of the proceeding.
The Serious Consequences of a Perjury Conviction
Perjury is considered a felony under California Penal Code §118. A conviction can result in:
- Up to 4 years in state prison
- Significant fines
- A permanent felony record that can impact employment, licensing, and reputation
In certain situations, perjury charges may also lead to additional consequences, such as immigration complications for non-citizens or enhanced penalties if tied to other criminal allegations like fraud.
How Prosecutors Build Perjury Cases
Proving perjury is not as straightforward as it may seem. Prosecutors must demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- The defendant was legally under oath.
- They knowingly made a false statement.
- The false statement was material to the proceeding.
This often requires corroborating evidence, such as transcripts, witness testimony, or documentation showing the contradiction. Because of this high burden, perjury cases can be challenging for the state—but also high-stakes for the accused.
Defense Strategies Against Perjury Allegations
At Chambers & Ball, we know that defending against perjury charges requires both precision and strategy. Potential defenses may include:
- Lack of intent: If the statement was made in error, out of confusion, or without awareness of its inaccuracy, it may not meet the threshold for perjury.
- Immaterial statement: If the alleged lie did not affect the proceeding’s outcome, it cannot legally constitute perjury.
- Insufficient proof: Prosecutors need strong evidence to show a false statement was intentional and material. Weak or contradictory evidence can lead to dismissal.
Why You Need a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney
Perjury charges can follow you for life. A conviction can damage your credibility, derail your career, and lead to prison time. With so much at stake, you cannot afford to face these allegations alone.
The attorneys at Chambers & Ball have years of experience handling complex criminal cases across Southern California. We know how to challenge weak evidence, expose flaws in the prosecution’s case, and protect your rights in and out of the courtroom.
Take Action Today
If you or someone you love has been accused of perjury, the time to act is now. Call Chambers & Ball at 714-760-4088 to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your defense.
