Perjury
The criminal offense of deliberately lying under oath or in a sworn document, such as a financial affidavit in divorce proceedings.
Understanding Perjury
Perjury in divorce most commonly occurs on financial affidavits, interrogatory responses, and court testimony. Hiding assets, understating income, or inflating expenses on sworn documents all constitute perjury. Penalties include fines, jail time, and adverse rulings in the divorce case — courts may award the honest spouse a larger share of assets as punishment. Despite being a serious crime, perjury in family court is rarely prosecuted criminally, though judges can and do impose civil sanctions.
Real-World Examples
When the forensic accountant proved he had hidden $300,000, the judge found him guilty of perjury on his financial affidavit and awarded her 65% of the marital assets.
Related Terms
A sworn document listing all income, expenses, assets, and debts that each spouse must file during divorce proceedings.
Hidden AssetsAssets that one spouse deliberately conceals, undervalues, or fails to disclose during divorce to avoid fair division.
Mandatory DisclosureRequired exchange of financial documents between both spouses early in the divorce process, regardless of whether either side requests them.
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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.
Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.