Perjury Vs False Statements

Summary

Perjury involves lying under oath during legal proceedings, while false statements involve lying to federal officials without the need for an oath. Lying to the police is typically considered a false statement. Lying by omission can be perjury if the omission is material and occurs under oath. For specific legal advice, consult a local attorney.

Full Conversation

Why is lying to the police considered perjury, if perjury and false statements, though similar, are distinct in the eyes of the law?
Lying to the police is generally considered making a false statement rather than perjury. Perjury specifically involves lying under oath during legal proceedings, such as in court or during depositions. False statements, on the other hand, involve lying to federal officials, which can include the police, but do not require the person to be under oath.
Do you have a specific situation or need more details on either of these concepts?
Lying by omission is NOT perjury, right?
Lying by omission can be considered perjury if the omission is material and the person is under oath during legal proceedings. Perjury involves willfully providing false information or omitting important facts while under oath. Do you have a specific case or situation where this is relevant?