Perjury and False Reports
Perjury and related offences such as making false reports are serious offences and often carry maximum penalties that include imprisonment. If you have been charged with one of the offences below or are concerned you may be charged, you should seek legal advice immediately.
Perjury
When a person knowingly makes an untrue statement while under oath they are committing an offence known as perjury. Perjury can attract a penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment as it involves knowingly deceiving the courts and potentially undermining the administration of justice.
Making false reports
It is an offence in Victoria to make false reports to police. This offence is punishable by a fine or up to one year of imprisonment.
Destruction of evidence
A person who knowingly destroys evidence that is required in a legal proceeding with the intention of preventing it from being used as evidence is guilty of an offence punishable by up to five years imprisonment.
Interfering with witnesses
A person who interferes with witnesses may be charged with criminal contempt of court, which can result in a term of imprisonment.
Concealing offences for benefit
A person who accepts a benefit for concealing a serious indictable offence is guilty of a crime under the Crimes Act 1958 and can be penalised by up to one year of imprisonment.
If you require legal advice or representation in relation to perjury and false reports or in any other legal matter, please contact Armstrong Legal.
This article was written by Michelle Makela
Michelle has over 15 years experience in the legal industry, working across commercial litigation, criminal law, family law and estate planning. Michelle has been involved in all practice areas of the firm and in her personal practice has had experience in litigation at all levels (State and Federal Industrial Tribunals, the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, Federal...
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