Los Angeles Perjury Defense Attorney

Perjury is a crime that strikes at the heart of California’s justice system. It involves knowingly making a false statement under oath, whether in court, in a deposition, or in certain written documents.

While some people may think of perjury as a minor offense, the reality is much harsher—California law treats perjury as a felony, punishable by years in state prison, heavy fines, and a permanent stain on your reputation.

At RP Defense Law APC, we understand the seriousness of these accusations and the impact they can have on your life. With over 18 years of criminal defense experience and a 99% success rate in avoiding maximum penalties, we are here to fight aggressively on your behalf. If you are under investigation or have already been charged with perjury in Los Angeles, do not wait—call (818) 646-3443 today for a confidential consultation with a skilled Los Angeles perjury defense attorney from our firm.

What Is Perjury Under California Law?

California defines perjury under Penal Code § 118 as willfully stating as true any material matter that you know to be false, when under oath or affirmation. This can occur in several settings, including:

• Testifying in court.
• Giving sworn statements in a deposition.
• Signing an affidavit or declaration under penalty of perjury.
• Submitting false information on government documents, such as tax returns or DMV forms.

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove four key elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• You took an oath to testify truthfully or signed a document under penalty of perjury.
• You willfully stated or provided false information.
• You knew the statement was false at the time you made it.
• The statement was “material”—meaning it was relevant and capable of influencing the proceeding or decision.

It is essential to note that simply making a mistake, being confused, or forgetting a fact does not constitute perjury. The prosecution must show that you knowingly lied about something that mattered to the outcome. When you hire our Los Angeles perjury defense lawyers, we will protect your rights and make the prosecution prove their case against you.

Penalties for Perjury in California

Perjury is a felony under California law, and the penalties reflect its seriousness:

• Imprisonment: Two, three, or four years in state prison.
• Fines: Up to $10,000.
• Probation: In some cases, probation may be granted with strict conditions.
• Collateral consequences: A felony conviction can result in loss of professional licenses, barriers to employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens, and damage to your reputation.

If the perjury is connected to a capital case, such as giving false testimony in a murder trial, the penalties can be even more severe. Attempted perjury (such as trying to submit a false declaration that was not ultimately accepted) is also a crime under Penal Code § 118a, punishable by up to one year in county jail.

Federal Perjury Charges

In addition to California law, perjury can be prosecuted at the federal level. 18 U.S.C. §§ 1621 and 1623 make it a crime to knowingly make false statements under oath in federal proceedings, such as testimony before a federal court or agency. Federal perjury carries penalties of up to five years in federal prison.

Because Los Angeles is home to federal courts, federal agencies, and high-profile cases, many perjury allegations here can cross into federal jurisdiction. At RP Defense Law APC, our Los Angeles perjury defense lawyers have the experience to defend clients in both California state and federal courts.

Examples of Perjury Cases

• Court Testimony: A witness lies during the trial about seeing the defendant at the crime scene.
• Civil Litigation: A person provides false information during a sworn deposition in a business lawsuit.
• Government Forms: Signing a false affidavit for immigration, DMV registration, or financial aid.
• Tax Documents: Submitting false returns under penalty of perjury.

These examples illustrate how perjury can arise in everyday life, not just in sensational courtroom dramas.

Defenses to Perjury Charges

Perjury cases can be difficult for prosecutors to prove because they require evidence that you intentionally lied about something material. Common defenses include:

Lack of Intent

If you believed your statement was true at the time you made it, or if you were simply mistaken, you cannot be guilty of perjury. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you deliberately lied.

Immaterial Statement

Perjury requires that the false statement be material, meaning it could influence the proceeding. If the falsehood was about something trivial or unrelated, it does not meet the legal standard.

Recantation

Under Penal Code § 118(b), if you admit that your prior testimony was false during the same proceeding, and before the matter has caused substantial harm, the perjury charge may not stand.

Insufficient Evidence

Often, perjury charges rest on conflicting testimony. If the prosecution cannot present independent evidence proving that your statement was false, they may fail to meet the burden of proof.

Constitutional Violations

If your statements were obtained in violation of your rights—for example, through coercion or without proper advisement—the evidence may be excluded from court.

Collateral Consequences of a Perjury Conviction

Beyond prison and fines, a perjury conviction can damage nearly every aspect of your life. Because perjury is considered a “crime of moral turpitude” under California and federal law, it carries a stigma of dishonesty that can follow you long after you have served your sentence. The impact is not limited to the criminal justice system—it can affect your career, your family, and your standing in the community.

Professional Licensing

Many licensing boards in California—including those governing attorneys, doctors, real estate agents, financial advisors, and teachers—require license holders to maintain “good moral character.” A perjury conviction can disqualify you from obtaining or renewing these licenses or result in disciplinary proceedings that may permanently end your career.

Credibility in Legal Proceedings

Once convicted of perjury, your testimony in any future legal matter—whether as a witness, party, or professional—may be discounted. Prosecutors and opposing attorneys can use the conviction to attack your credibility, making it difficult for you to participate effectively in civil or family court cases.

Immigration Status

For non-citizens, perjury is considered a deportable offense. It may prevent you from obtaining permanent residency, U.S. citizenship, or re-entry into the country. Immigration judges often treat crimes of dishonesty with particular severity, making an aggressive defense in the original case critical.

Employment Barriers

Employers in nearly every industry conduct background checks, and a perjury conviction can raise red flags that lead to lost job opportunities. Jobs requiring trust and responsibility—such as those in banking, government, and healthcare—are especially impacted.

Civil Liability

If false testimony causes financial harm to another person or business, you can face civil lawsuits seeking monetary damages. This means that, in addition to potential criminal penalties, you may also face long-term financial consequences.

Community Reputation

Perjury convictions carry a strong social stigma. Being labeled dishonest can erode trust among colleagues, friends, and even family members, making it difficult to rebuild your personal and professional life.

Given these far-reaching consequences, defending against perjury charges is about much more than avoiding prison; it’s about protecting your reputation, your livelihood, and the future you’ve worked hard to build. At RP Defense Law APC, our Los Angeles perjury defense lawyers fight not only to keep you out of custody but also to protect you from the lasting collateral damage a conviction can cause.

What to Do If You’re Accused of Perjury

If you are under investigation or charged with perjury in Los Angeles, you should:

• Remain Silent: Do not speak to investigators without your Los Angeles perjury defense attorney present. Anything you say can be twisted and used against you.
• Gather Evidence: Preserve documents, notes, or communications that may show your statement was made in good faith.
• Contact Our Los Angeles Perjury Defense Attorneys Immediately: Early intervention can mean the difference between dismissal and conviction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles Perjury Charges

Can I Go to Jail for Perjury?

Yes. Perjury is a felony that carries a potential sentence of up to four years in state prison in California and up to five years in federal prison.

What If I Made a Mistake While Testifying?

Honest mistakes or misunderstandings are not perjury. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly lied.

What If I Change My Testimony?

California law permits recantation in certain situations. If you correct your statement during the same proceeding and before it has caused harm, you may avoid perjury charges.

How Does the Prosecution Prove Perjury?

The prosecution must prove intent, falsity, materiality, and that the statement was made under oath. Often, this requires corroborating evidence beyond just another person’s word.

Why Choose RP Defense Law APC for Perjury Defense?

With over 18 years of experience defending clients in Los Angeles criminal courts, RP Defense Law APC has built a proven track record that includes a 99% success rate in avoiding maximum penalties. We provide comprehensive defense, handling both state and federal perjury cases with the same level of dedication and strategic focus. At the same time, we take a compassionate approach, recognizing the stress and uncertainty that come with facing felony charges, and guiding our clients through every step of the process. Our mission is not only to defend against the charges but also to protect your name, credibility, and future.

Fight Your Perjury Charges with RP Defense Law

Perjury charges in Los Angeles carry serious legal, professional, and personal consequences. Whether you’re accused of lying under oath in court, in a deposition, or on official documents, you need a skilled Los Angeles perjury defense attorney who understands how to dismantle the prosecution’s case. At RP Defense Law APC, we bring decades of combined experience, aggressive advocacy, and a track record of success to every case.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call (818) 646-3443 or contact us online today for a confidential consultation with a Los Angeles perjury defense lawyer from RP Defense Law APC who will fight to protect your freedom and reputation.