Does anyone ever get prosecuted for perjury?

Question

I am wondering because I am involved in a lawsuit where a witness for the opposing side signed an affidavit making two statements that we have proof are completely false. Would our lawyer have to bring it to the DA's office, or could we file a civil suit against the person who perjured himself?

Answer 1

bring it to the DA first then after the case is over, take the person to civil court and file a claim.

Answer 2

Again, laws vary with the state.  In my state perjury is prosecuted all the time.

However, just telling a lie is not perjury in my state. It must be a lie about a "material fact".  That means you can say pretty much what you want, except for a material fact.

Answer 3

If you have a lawyer why are you asking this question of Yahoo! Answers?  Ask your lawyer.

Answer 4

It's most commonly prosecuted where the perjury concerns state documents.  For instance, falsification of a driver's license application, application for food stamps, welfare, or other government aid, applications for professional licensing, and the like.

In your example, what is more likely is an admonishment and/or sanction from the judge, imposed either on the parties to the litigation, or the lawyers themselves, if the judge is convinced that the lawyers knowingly presented false testimony.  In addition, the lawyers may face repurcussions from the state bar.

Answer 5

Your lawyer is your best resource  for this. Yes, some folks do get prosecuted for perjury, ask bill clinton,  Lewis "Scooter" Libby.. to mention a few infamous times.

Answer 6

Yes, people to get prosecuted.  Talk to you attorney, not to Yahoo Answers.