One Criminal Defense charge in regards to statements made to the police is Unsworn falsification to authorities. While the offenses of perjury and false swearing both cover lying under oath or the equivalent affirmation, unsworn falsification to authorities covers, as the name suggests, the times when false statements are made while not under oath. sex crimes The act of unsworn falsification to authorities is written under section 4904 of the Pa criminal code. It essentially means that an individual is guilty of this offense if he has the intention to mislead any public official in the course of their duties. This can include giving either written statements or oral statements. In addition, if an individual provides a document that he knows to be false or forged or altered in any manner to an official, he is also guilty of this offense. This statute can be confused with providing false statements to a law enforcement officer, however, in the legal sense they have different meanings and different penalties if found guilty of the offense.
In criminal defense cases, the offense of unsworn falsification to authorities is a misdemeanor of the second degree and with it comes a sentence of up to two years in jail and the statute specifically mentions a fine of $1,000. Rule 600 Due to the seriousness of the offense and the penalties you face it is important if you have been charged with the unsworn falsification to authorities to seek good legal representation. A good defense attorney can make a number of different arguments that could help your case. For instance, a possible defense against this charge is that you did not know that the statements you provided to the authorities was false. The state has a high burden of proof and must show beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly and intentionally provided false statements. If you can show that you did not knowingly do that, it is a solid defense against the charge. The attorneys at The Bellwoar Kelly, LLPare experienced attorneys who will help you with all your legal needs and will fight for the best outcome of your case.
