Perjury and False Statements (NSW)
Perjury is a serious offence in New South Wales. Other offences that are associated with perjury include false statement offences such as concealing a serious offence, hindering an investigation and perverting the course of justice. These offences are governed by the Crimes Act 1900.
Concealing Serious Offence
In New South Wales, it is an offence to conceal a serious indictable offence. This includes when a person fails to bring information to police that could be used in apprehending a person for an offence that carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment or more.
False Accusations
It is an offence to make a false accusation to police in New South Wales. A person commits this offence when they make an allegation to police, knowing the allegation to be false, with the intention of causing police to investigate a person for an offence.
Hindering an Investigation
Hindering an investigation is an offence that carries a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment. A person commits this offence when they do an act with the intention of hindering an investigation, preventing the discovery of evidence or preventing the apprehension of a suspect.
Perjury
The offence of perjury is committed when a person knowingly makes a false statement under oath or affirmation during a judicial proceeding concerning a matter that is relevant to the proceeding.
Pervert the Course of Justice
It is an offence to do or fail to do something with the intent to pervert the course of justice.
Tampering with Evidence
Tampering with evidence is an offence that carries a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment. It occurs when a person suppresses, destroys or conceals evidence or fabricates false evidence.
Threatening Witnesses
It is an offence in New South Wales to threaten or intimidate a victim or witness with the intention of influencing them not to bring material information to the attention of authorities.
If you require legal advice or representation in any legal matter, please contact Armstrong Legal.
This article was written by Fernanda Dahlstrom
Fernanda Dahlstrom has a Bachelor of Laws, a Bachelor of Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. She has also completed a Master’s in Writing and Literature. Fernanda practised law for eight years, working in criminal defence, child protection and domestic violence law in the Northern Territory and in family law in Queensland.
About Armstrong Legal
Armstrong Legal is a nationwide law firm with over 30 years' experience helping Australians manage serious legal matters with clear, careful guidance. From our offices in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Mornington and Geelong, we put clients' interests first and provide guidance that encourages informed decisions.
Our national team includes lawyers across Australia who support clients from a diverse range of backgrounds with expert advice, capable of and ready to answer your questions about "when can a will be contested", "best criminal attorneys" or "blacktown criminal lawyers". Whether you're dealing with ASIC offences, addressing drunk driving cases or seeking help with property settlement, our lawyers can help you act quickly, especially where time limits are relevant.
If you've been browsing for "criminal lawyer sutherland", "estate dispute attorney perth" or "penalties for drug possession victoria", our team can explain your options, what your likely next steps may be, potential costs and any time limits that may apply. Speak with our friendly team of lawyers now for an assessment of your case.