Perjury Legal Consequences Explained

Summary

Perjury in the third degree under New York Penal Law § 210.05 involves making a false statement under oath that you do not believe to be true. It is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in serious consequences including fines and imprisonment. A judge or jury determines the truthfulness of a statement by evaluating evidence such as contradictory statements, witness testimony, documentation, and the persons behavior during testimony.

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What is New York Penal Law § *.*?
New York Penal Law § *.* defines perjury in the third degree. This occurs when a person makes a false statement, which they do not believe to be true, while giving testimony or under oath in a written instrument. It is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, potentially leading to fines and imprisonment.
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How would a judge know if a person makes a false statement, which they do not believe to be true?
A judge or jury typically determines if a person made a false statement knowingly by evaluating evidence, including:
- Contradictory statements: Inconsistencies between the testimony and other evidence.
- Witness testimony: Statements from others that contradict the person's testimony.
- Documentation: Written records that disprove the statement.
- Behavior: The person's demeanor and behavior during testimony.
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