In California, it is illegal to purposefully lie or distort the truth under oath. This not only refers to lying in court, but lying or falsifying information on a voter's registration, marriage license or other official documents as well.

No one can be convicted of perjury if the only evidence to the contrary is the testimony of a single person other than the defendant, but they can be convicted by direct or indirect evidence.

This law can be applied to an officer who files a report he or she knows is wrong relating to the investigation of a crime.

If an oath is administered in an irregular matter, it is still valid and not considered a defense for perjury. If a person makes a statement under oath they do not know to be true, they can be charged with perjury.

If convicted in California, a person may receive a prison sentence of up to four years for perjury. Anyone who encourages another to commit perjury may also be charged with and convicted of perjury.

Trust us to fight on your behalf. Campbell & Jayne LLP are experienced professionals who want to represent you. We are San Francisco's premier criminal defense firm committed to providing each client with personalized and outstanding representation. We have experience representing clients both in California courts and federal court.

As former prosecutors, we bring extensive trial experience and a unique insight into the courtroom. Our backgrounds give our clients a great advantage as we work to strategize his or her defense.

We represent individuals in all criminal cases in the Bay Area including San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Marin, Sonoma, Napa and Solano counties. If you are being investigated for or have been charged with perjury, contact us today to represent you.

Related Links :
18 U.S.C. § 1621 (Perjury)
Sentencing Issues: Perjury

>> Back to Practice Areas