What happens if you lie to the federal government?

Many people may be surprised to learn that they can be prosecuted for lying to a government official, even if they are not under oath. As long as the lie is related to a “matter within the jurisdiction” of a federal government agency, the statement does not need to be made directly to a federal employee.

Is it illegal to lie to a federal officer?

Under 18 USC Section 1001, it is a felony to make a “false statement” to an agent or agency of the federal government in connection with a federal matter. The government can’t convict a person simply for telling a lie.

What happens if you lie to the Supreme Court?

Lying under oath disrupts the judicial process and is taken very seriously. Being convicted of perjury can result in serious consequences, including probation and fines. For federal perjury, a person can be convicted by up to five years in prison.

What type of crime is lying to the FBI?

The price you might pay for a single false statement made to the FBI can be steep. This offense is a federal crime and a felony, meaning a conviction could haunt you for the rest of your life. If you are convicted of making a false statement, you could face up to five years in federal prison.

Is it illegal to lie to a judge?

Perjury is considered a crime against justice, since lying under oath compromises the authority of courts, grand juries, governing bodies, and public officials. Other crimes against justice include criminal contempt of court, probation violation, and tampering with evidence.

Is lying breaking the law?

In the United States, the general perjury statute under federal law classifies perjury as a felony and provides for a prison sentence of up to five years. The California Penal Code allows for perjury to be a capital offense in cases causing wrongful execution.

Is lying illegal in the US?

§ 1001) is the common name for the United States federal process crime laid out in Section 1001 of Title 18 of the United States Code, which generally prohibits knowingly and willfully making false or fraudulent statements, or concealing information, in “any matter within the jurisdiction” of the federal government of …