Nearly every day, there are court hearings for a variety of purposes, including first appearances, preliminary hearings, civil and criminal trials, and more. Everyone involved in cases that go to court is legally required to tell the truth on the stand. Failing to tell the truth in court can lead to charges of perjury.
If you have been accused of lying on the stand, it is important to speak with a DeKalb County perjury lawyer. A skilled criminal defense attorney from our firm could help you understand the charges against you, assess the evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
What is Considered Perjury?
Perjury in Georgia involves knowingly and willingly offering false testimony while under oath in any type of judicial proceeding. In order for this charge to hold, the false testimony must be significant to the outcome of the case. It should be noted that making a simple mistake or being unable to remember a specific detail during testimony is not considered perjury, nor is refusing to testify. However, convincing someone else to lie under oath on your behalf is a form of perjury known as subornation.
What are the Consequences of a Perjury Charge?
Lying during a judicial proceeding can have profound consequences. A perjury conviction carries a potential prison sentence of one to 10 years and a fine of up to $1,000. If the perjury resulted in someone else’s conviction, the consequence could be a sentence equal to what that person received.
How Can a Perjury Lawyer Help You?
Depending on the facts of your case, there are a number of defenses to perjury charges in DeKalb County, such as:
- Prove that the untruth told under oath had no impact on the outcome of the case.
- Question the evidence, or lack of evidence, that the prosecution has to prove that you willingly lied
- Show evidence proving you did not know that you lied on the stand or that the false statement was a mistake or misunderstanding
These are just a few examples of the types of arguments a lawyer may make on your behalf to protect you from a perjury conviction.
In some cases, the strategy is not a matter of mounting a defense to the charges but of limiting the consequences of a conviction by negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecutor. Whatever your situation, an experienced lawyer in Dekalb County could help you understand your options after being accused of perjury.
Contact a DeKalb County Perjury Lawyer from Robert James Trial Attorneys
Robert James Trial Attorneys is a firm founded by a former-elected district attorney with 25 years of experience in the legal system. Our team understands the importance of having a sound defense strategy when facing serious charges such as perjury.
Let our firm provide you with a free case evaluation so that you can discuss the details of your case with an experienced Dekalb County perjury lawyer. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.