Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed January 19, 2018
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If Pinocchio taught us anything, it was that lying can affect your life in a negative way. Although lying is not typically illegal, there are circumstances where dishonesty is a criminal offense; perjury and other related crimes are such examples. A person commits perjury when he or she intentionally lies under oath about a material issue. If you make a false statement under circumstances in which your testimony could be subpoenaed (an affidavit or affirmation, testimony at a trial, or a deposition), then you could be charged with perjury.
If you make a false statement under oath, you're not only subject to the penalties associated with perjury, but if you also certify a statement that you know is false in a sworn written affidavit or affirmation, you could be charged with a false swearing as well. For example, if you sign verifications of your divorce pleadings and you sign them knowing that the information is untrue.
Another offense is subornation of perjury or false statement. This simply means that you have convinced another to commit perjury or to make a false statement. For example, if a man convinces his co-worker to provide a false alibi for him and the co-worker does commit perjury or makes a false statement based on the inducement, then the man could be charged under this offense.
The chart below provides a summary of laws related to perjury laws in Georgia, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
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Penalties and Sentencing |
Perjury:
False Swearing:
Subornation of Perjury/False Swearing:
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Possible Defenses |
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Being charged under Georgia's perjury laws can be confusing. It helps to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side who understands the differences between the offenses and how that can affect your case. Get started by finding a Georgia attorney located near you.
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