False Statements

What are False Statements?

Making false statements is a common name for a group of activities where the accused has willfully made false or fraudulent statements. The term may be used in a number of contexts, including perjury, obstruction of justice, cover-up of other crimes, or an attempt to influence financial decisions in favor of the person making the statement.

Federal law prohibits making a false statement to the United States government. Lying to a federal agent is a criminal offense with serious penalties. The law against making a false statement to an agent of the federal government is 18 U.S.C. 1001. The statute says it is against the law to knowingly and willfully make any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement or representation concerning any matter within the jurisdiction of the United States. The sentence for this crime can be 5 years in federal prison. In addition to the prohibition against lying to a federal agent, there are laws against making a false statement in a loan application.

Some examples of false statements may include actions on the part of an individual to:

• Falsify information on applications for loans or mortgages
• Falsify details of purchase agreements
• Falsify information given for an extension of credit
• Give untrue testimony in court

What are the consequences of making False Statements?

The penalties if you are found to have made false statements may include substantial fines, and imprisonment.

What are some defenses to a False Statements charge?

Possible defense to a false statements charge would be the belief on the part of the accused that in fact, the statements were true.

Contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles

If you are accused of false statements, you should contact Ken Behzadi immediately to learn more about your rights, your defenses, and the legal system process.