Perjury Lawyer Maryland — What Are the Defenses to Lying Under Oath?
Perjury in Maryland is a serious felony under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 9-101, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath, securing a skilled perjury lawyer in Maryland is critical to protect your rights and future. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges.
Maryland Perjury Law and Penalties
In Maryland, perjury is defined as willfully making a false statement under oath in a judicial or official proceeding, where the statement is material to the proceeding. The statute, Md. Code, Crim. Law § 9-101, classifies perjury as a felony. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years and significant fines. The charge becomes aggravated perjury if the false statement is made in a capital case or leads to another person being convicted of a felony, carrying even harsher penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources on Perjury
For the official text of Maryland’s perjury statute, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website (Md. Code, Crim. Law § 9-101). For information on court procedures where perjury allegations may arise, visit the Maryland Courts official website.
Building a Defense Against Perjury Charges
Successfully defending against perjury charges requires a detailed, case-specific approach. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly made a false statement, that it was under oath, and that it was material to the proceeding. A common defense strategy involves challenging the element of intent, arguing the statement was a mistake or misunderstanding, not a willful lie. Another defense is to question the materiality of the statement—showing it had no bearing on the outcome of the proceeding. An experienced criminal attorney will meticulously review all transcripts and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Immediate Consultation: Contact a defense lawyer immediately after being accused or charged. Do not discuss the case with anyone else.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will obtain all transcripts, recordings, and related documents from the original proceeding.
- Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will develop a defense, such as lack of intent, mistake, or immateriality.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your criminal court lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors occurred.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds, your attorney will prepare a vigorous defense for trial, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every step.
Potential Penalties for a Perjury Conviction
In Maryland, a perjury conviction is a felony that can lead to a decade in prison, fines, and lasting damage to your personal and professional reputation.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000* | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, damage to credibility. |
| Aggravated Perjury | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $15,000* | All standard penalties, plus enhanced sentencing due to the severe nature of the offense. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*Fines are subject to change by statute.
Our Experience in Defending Serious Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that perjury charges are not just about the immediate penalty but about protecting your integrity and future. Our approach is thorough, strategic, and focused on achieving the best possible resolution for your situation.
Case Results for Criminal Charges Defense
The attorneys at SRIS, P.C. have a documented history of achieving positive results in complex cases. For instance, our team has successfully argued for the dismissal of perjury-related charges by demonstrating a lack of materiality or proving that our client’s statement was not willfully false. In other cases, we have negotiated favorable plea agreements that avoided prison time. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases involving detailed evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Perjury Defense Lawyers
If you are under investigation or have been charged with perjury, time is of the essence. Our Maryland location is centrally positioned to serve clients across the state. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for immediate guidance.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perjury in Maryland
Is perjury always a felony in Maryland?
Yes. Under Maryland law, perjury is classified as a felony, not a misdemeanor. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
Can I be charged with perjury for a lie told outside of court?
It depends. Maryland’s perjury statute primarily applies to false statements made under oath in a judicial or official proceeding. However, lying on certain official documents submitted to a government agency (like a sworn affidavit) can also lead to perjury charges.
What is the main defense against a perjury charge?
A common defense is challenging the “willfulness” of the false statement. This means arguing you did not intentionally lie but were mistaken, confused, or misunderstood the question. Proving the statement was not material to the proceeding is another key defense strategy.
Should I talk to the police if they want to ask me about a possible false statement?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a perjury lawyer in Maryland. Anything you say can be used to build a case against you.
How can a perjury lawyer help me?
A skilled perjury lawyer will analyze all evidence, including transcripts and recordings, to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced or dismissed charges and, if necessary, provide a strong defense at trial to protect your freedom and reputation.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.