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Warning
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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Perjury
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A quick definition of Perjury:
Perjury: When someone lies on purpose about something important while under oath in a trial, it is called perjury. This is against the law and can result in punishment. The rules for perjury may be different depending on where you are. In the United States, it is against federal law to commit perjury in court.
A more thorough explanation:
Perjury is when a person lies about an important fact while under oath in a court of law. This is a serious crime that can result in fines and even jail time. The exact definition of perjury can vary depending on where you live, but it is always illegal to lie under oath.
For example, if a witness in a trial is asked if they saw the defendant commit a crime and they say "no" even though they did see it happen, they would be committing perjury. This is because they are lying about an important fact while under oath in a court of law.
Another example of perjury could be if someone is asked if they have ever used drugs and they say "no" even though they have. This would be perjury because they are lying about an important fact while under oath.
Perjury is a serious crime because it undermines the justice system. If people are allowed to lie under oath without consequences, it becomes much harder to determine the truth in a court of law. That's why it's important to always tell the truth when you are under oath.