Fort Lauderdale Attorneys Explain How to Beat Allegations of Perjury
Being accused of perjury can be scary. Perjury means lying under oath, which is a felony offense. If convicted, you could face fines, probation, or even jail time. But just because someone claims you lied doesn’t mean you’ll be found guilty. Fort Lauderdale attorneys regularly defend clients against perjury allegations. Here’s their advice on how to fight back.
What Is Perjury?
Perjury refers to making false statements under oath, either in court or in a written document like an affidavit. To prove perjury, prosecutors must show:
- You made a statement
- The statement was false
- You knew the statement was false when you made it
- The false statement was material, meaning it could impact the case
- You made the statement under oath
All elements must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If prosecutors can’t satisfy each one, you should be found not guilty.
Common Defenses Against Perjury Charges
Fort Lauderdale defense attorneys use various strategies to fight perjury allegations. Here are some of the most effective:
Lack of Evidence
A perjury conviction hinges on the prosecution having solid evidence you knowingly lied. But often, they rely on circumstantial evidence that doesn’t directly prove deceit. Skillful defense lawyers can highlight evidentiary weaknesses to cast doubt on the charges.
Honest Mistake
Even if your statement was wrong, that alone doesn’t mean perjury. The law recognizes people sometimes make honest mistakes. As long as there’s a reasonable possibility you were sincerely wrong rather than lying, perjury can’t be proven.
Statement Not Material
Lying isn’t perjury unless it’s material to the case. Minor discrepancies that don’t impact the core issues aren’t enough. Your lawyer can argue the alleged falsehood was immaterial.
Confusion
Vague or confusing questioning can lead to unintentionally inaccurate answers. If a line of questioning left you perplexed, it’s easier to show you weren’t intentionally lying.
Mental State
Your mental state when testifying is relevant. Stress, fear, exhaustion, etc. could have caused you to misremember details. Your lawyer may explore if mental factors influenced your testimony.
What to Do If Accused of Perjury
Don’t panic if you’re facing a perjury investigation or charges. These tips can help protect your rights:
- Don’t answer questions from police or prosecutors without an attorney present.
- Hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Follow your lawyer’s advice about whether to testify or provide a statement.
- Give your lawyer names of supporting witnesses he can interview.
- Save copies of documents, emails, texts, etc. that could help your defense.
The Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer
Defending yourself against perjury allegations is extremely difficult. An experienced lawyer offers many advantages, such as:
- Thoroughly investigating the allegations and building a strong defense
- Identifying procedural problems or evidentiary rules that bolster your case
- Developing alternative explanations for inaccurate statements
- Negotiating with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed
- Selecting and preparing expert witnesses to support your defense
- Skillfully cross-examining the prosecution’s witnesses
- Effectively presenting your defense theory and evidence at trial
- Making persuasive legal arguments to the judge regarding flaws in the prosecution’s case
Without an attorney, you’ll struggle to take advantage of these protections.
Why Fort Lauderdale Attorneys Should Handle Your Case
The perjury laws in Florida are complex. Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorneys have experience applying them to real cases. Local lawyers also have relationships with prosecutors and judges that could aid negotiations. And they understand the tendencies of juries in your jurisdiction.
Fort Lauderdale perjury defense lawyers are also convenient to meet with as your case progresses. This gives them insights that outside lawyers lack. Don’t take chances – retain a skilled local attorney to fight your perjury charges.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Perjury Defense Attorney Today
Perjury allegations can destroy careers, reputations and lives. But an experienced lawyer can help you avoid a conviction. To discuss your case with a Fort Lauderdale perjury defense attorney, call our office today or schedule a consultation online.