Being accused of perjury in Lakeland, FL, is a serious matter that can have devastating consequences for a defendant’s record and reputation. When you’re facing perjury charges, it means you’re being accused of lying under oath.
In some situations, misunderstandings, memory issues, or disputes about what was said under oath can lead to allegations that a person intentionally made a false statement. If you are under investigation or have already been charged, Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys can help.
Contact us today to at (863) 343-1954 schedule a confidential consultation with a Lakeland perjury lawyer.
Why Choose Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help With a Perjury Charge in Lakeland, FL?
If you are facing perjury charges in Lakeland, FL, having the right criminal defense lawyer can make a significant difference in how your case is handled. Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys has decades of experience representing clients throughout Polk County and is prepared to offer you aggressive, comprehensive legal representation.
We understand the gravity of a perjury charge and its potential consequences, and our team is dedicated to helping you build a strong criminal defense.
Our firm offers several advantages to individuals facing perjury allegations, including:
- 25 years of legal experience that includes representing individuals throughout Central Florida in serious criminal matters
- More than 100 five-star Google reviews from clients and families we have represented
- A team based in Lakeland with experience handling cases in local courts
- Referrals from attorneys throughout Polk, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties who trust our commitment to their clients
These qualities enable our firm to provide personalized representation to individuals facing serious criminal charges. If you have been charged with perjury or believe you are under investigation, contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Lakeland criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Perjury in Florida
Florida law recognizes different forms of perjury. One form is knowingly making a false material statement under oath outside of an official proceeding. This may involve affidavits, sworn declarations, notarized documents, or other written statements made under oath.
The second type involves making a false statement under oath during an official proceeding, such as a court hearing, deposition, or other formal legal matter. To obtain a conviction, prosecutors generally must prove that the statement was false, that it was made under oath, that the person knew it was false, and that it related to a material matter.
A material matter is one that could influence a decision, investigation, proceeding, transaction, or other significant issue. It is generally not a defense to claim that you did not realize the statement was important if it had the potential to affect the outcome of the matter.
What Are the Penalties for a Perjury Conviction in Lakeland, Florida?
In Florida, the penalties for perjury can be severe, varying based on the specifics of the case and the nature of the accusation.
In many cases, making a false sworn statement outside of an official proceeding can be charged as a first-degree misdemeanor.
Potential penalties can include:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to 12 months of probation
- A fine of up to $1,000
Perjury committed during an official proceeding is generally charged as a third-degree felony in Florida. Potential penalties include up to five years in prison, up to five years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000.
Because a conviction can result in a permanent criminal record and significant penalties, it is important to take these allegations seriously from the outset.
What Does the Prosecutor Have to Prove in a Perjury Case?
To convict someone of perjury, the prosecution must prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt.
Depending on the specific charge, prosecutors may need to establish that:
- The statement was made under oath
- The statement was false
- The person knew the statement was false when it was made
- The statement involved a material matter
In many cases, proving intent becomes one of the most heavily contested issues. The fact that a statement later turns out to be inaccurate does not automatically mean a person committed perjury.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I Am Arrested for Perjury?
If you have been accused of perjury in Lakeland, you still have important legal defenses available. The facts of your case and the circumstances surrounding the statement often play a critical role in the outcome.
You Believed the Statement Was True
For a perjury conviction, prosecutors generally must prove that you did not believe your statement was true when you made it. If you honestly believed you were telling the truth or misunderstood the question, that may provide a defense.
The Statement Was Not Material
Florida law requires the alleged false statement to involve a material matter. If the statement was not capable of influencing the issue being considered, it may not satisfy this requirement.
The Statement Was Not Made Under Oath
Perjury generally requires that the statement be made under oath. If you were not under oath when the statement was made, the charge may not be legally supported.
Working with a Lakeland criminal defense attorney can be important when evaluating the evidence and identifying defenses that may apply to your case.
Contact a Lakeland Perjury Attorney at Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Confidential Consultation Today
Facing perjury charges does not mean you are out of options. These cases often involve complex factual and legal issues, and the outcome may depend on whether the prosecution can prove each required element of the offense. With the right legal team beside you, it’s possible to challenge the accusations, expose weak evidence, or reduce the impact these charges could have on your life.
Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys works closely with clients to evaluate the allegations, identify possible defenses, and develop a strategy tailored to the facts of the case. Reach out to us today to schedule a confidential case evaluation with a Lakeland perjury lawyer.