new york penal law 210 05 perjury in the third degree
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NY Penal Law 210.05 Perjury in the Third Degree
Truthfulness matters in our legal system. Lying under oath, also known as perjury, is a serious crime that undermines justice. If you’ve been accused of perjury in the third degree in New York, you need to understand the law and possible penalties to build an effective defense.
What is Perjury in the Third Degree?

Under New York Penal Law 210.05, a person commits perjury in the third degree when they intentionally make a false statement while under oath[1]. This includes lying:
- In court testimony
- In a deposition under oath
- In an affidavit or written statement made under penalty of perjury
The false statement must be about a material fact relevant to the proceeding. Simple mistakes generally don’t qualify as perjury[2].
Penalties if Convicted of Perjury
Perjury in the third degree is a Class A misdemeanor in New York. Potential penalties include[3]:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- A permanent criminal record
While probation is also possible, jail time can result for serious cases that undermine legal proceedings.
Defending Against Perjury Charges
Viable defenses against NY Penal Law 210.05 charges include[4]:
- You did not make any false statements
- Any false statements were not intentional or material
- Lack of supporting evidence beyond accusation
- Violation of due process rights
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can evaluate defenses based on the facts of your case and build the strongest argument to fight the charges.
Why Hire a NY Criminal Defense Attorney?
Don’t try to navigate perjury charges alone. A lawyer can provide invaluable help by[5]:
- Conducting an independent investigation of the facts
- Interviewing potential witnesses to support your defense
- Negotiating dismissal or reduction of charges with the prosecutor
- Guiding you through the criminal justice process
- Avoiding common mistakes that hurt defendants
Their expertise can make all the difference in getting charges dropped or penalties minimized.
Finding the Right Lawyer for Your Case
Look for a New York criminal defense lawyer who[6]:
- Focuses specifically on perjury and false statement charges
- Has experience defending NY Penal Law 210.05 cases
- Is familiar with local courts and prosecutors
- Has a track record of good results
Do your research to find the right fit. Consult with a few lawyers before deciding who to hire.
Don’t Delay – Get Legal Help Now
Perjury accusations can disrupt your life and do long-term damage to your reputation. But an aggressive defense lawyer can often get charges dismissed pre-trial. Don’t go it alone against experienced prosecutors.
If you’ve been accused of perjury in the third degree under NY Penal Law 210.05, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. They’ll protect your rights every step of the way. With an expert in your corner, you have a much better chance of avoiding conviction and clearing your name.
Don’t wait to get the strong legal defense you need. Call an experienced New York perjury lawyer today.
References
[4] Perjury Defenses
[5] Benefits of Legal Representation