Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: Making a false statement under oath in an official proceeding, knowing the statement to be false. Perjury in Florida is a third-degree felony.
Category: Criminal Offenses · Statute: F.S. 837.02 · Source: Florida Legislature
Florida Statute 837.02"Whoever makes a false statement, which he or she does not believe to be true, under oath in an official proceeding... commits a felony of the third degree."
Elements
- A false statement of fact (not opinion)
- Made under oath (sworn testimony, affidavit)
- In an official proceeding (court, deposition, grand jury)
- The person knew the statement was false
Bail
3rd degree felony. Bail: $5,000–$15,000. Aggravated perjury in capital cases is a 2nd degree felony.