Perjury Lawyer Cape May County — Defending Against Lying Under Oath Charges
Perjury in Cape May County is a serious crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:28-1, punishable by up to five years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath, you need a strategic defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation for perjury charges in the Cape May County Superior Court. Contact a perjury lawyer Cape May County today for a 24/7 consultation.
Understanding Perjury Charges in New Jersey
Perjury, defined as making a false statement under oath or in a sworn document, is a third-degree crime in New Jersey. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:28-1, requires the prosecution to prove you knowingly made a false statement that was material to the proceeding. Defending a perjury charge often involves challenging the materiality of the statement, your intent to deceive, or the validity of the oath itself.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Cape May Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the perjury statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:28-1 (official New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures and filing information for Cape May County can be found at the Cape May Vicinage website.
handling a Perjury Case in Cape May County
Being charged with perjury in Cape May County means your case will be heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division. The process is complex, beginning with an indictment by a grand jury. Prosecutors in this vicinage take allegations of lying under oath seriously, as they undermine the judicial system. An effective defense requires immediate action to secure evidence and witness statements before memories fade.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking with your perjury lawyer Cape May County.
- Case Review & Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will obtain all transcripts, affidavits, and recordings related to the alleged false statement.
- Challenge the Elements: Build a defense focusing on lack of materiality, absence of intent, or an invalid oath administration.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors exist.
- Trial or Negotiation: Advocate vigorously at trial or negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense like unsworn falsification.
Potential Penalties for Perjury in NJ
In Cape May County, a perjury conviction is a third-degree crime carrying significant penalties, including state prison time and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (N.J.S.A. 2C:28-1a) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Loss of professional licenses, permanent felony record, loss of voting rights while incarcerated. |
| Unsworn Falsification (N.J.S.A. 2C:28-3) | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Misdemeanor record, potential immigration consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Perjury Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex criminal defense. Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes across multiple states. We understand that a perjury charge can derail your life, and we build defenses focused on protecting your future and your reputation.
Our Approach to Your Defense
When you hire a perjury charge lawyer Cape May County from our firm, we conduct a meticulous investigation. We examine the proceeding where the oath was taken, the specific questions asked, and the alleged falsity of your answers. We work with forensic experts when necessary to analyze documents or recordings. Our goal is to create reasonable doubt about your intent or the materiality of the statement, seeking dismissal or reduction of charges.
Contact Our Cape May County Perjury Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Cape May County, including Cape May Court House, Wildwood, Avalon, Stone Harbor, and Ocean City. We are accessible via the Garden State Parkway and Route 9.
Frequently Asked Questions: Perjury Defense
What is the difference between perjury and lying under oath?
No difference in New Jersey. “Lying under oath” is the common term for perjury, which is the formal criminal charge defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:28-1. Both refer to the same offense of making a false material statement after taking an oath to tell the truth.
Can I be charged with perjury for a statement in a divorce case?
Yes. Any sworn testimony or affidavit filed in a family court proceeding, such as a divorce or custody hearing in Cape May County Superior Court, Family Division, is made under oath. A knowingly false statement on a financial affidavit or during testimony can lead to a perjury charge.
What are common defenses to a perjury charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed the statement was true), immateriality (the falsehood did not affect the proceeding), recantation (you corrected the false statement before it affected the proceeding), and invalid oath. A skilled lying under oath defense lawyer Cape May County can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
Is a plea bargain possible in a perjury case?
It depends. Prosecutors may offer a plea to a lesser offense, such as unsworn falsification, to resolve the case without trial. This depends on the strength of the evidence, your criminal history, and the specifics of the alleged falsehood. Negotiation is a key role of your perjury lawyer Cape May County.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for perjury?
Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense attorney. Do not speak to investigators or attempt to “clarify” your statement without legal counsel. Anything you say can be used to establish the intent element of the crime.
Related Legal Services in Cape May County: If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm also assists with business law, federal criminal defense, and DUI charges. For statewide resources, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.