Legal Definitions - falsehood

In legal terms, a falsehood refers to a statement or representation that is untrue or a lie. Such an untruth can have significant legal implications, particularly when made under oath, as it forms the basis of offenses like perjury.

A falsehood refers to a statement or representation that is untrue or contrary to fact. In legal contexts, the significance of a falsehood often depends on whether it was made intentionally, negligently, or innocently, and the harm or consequences it causes.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of a falsehood:

• Example 1: Business Transaction

  A real estate agent tells a prospective buyer that a house has a brand-new roof, knowing full well that the roof is over 20 years old and in poor condition. The agent's statement about the roof's age and condition is a falsehood because it is a direct misrepresentation of a material fact about the property, intended to mislead the buyer.

• Example 2: Official Application

  When applying for a professional license, an individual includes on their application that they possess a specific degree from a university, when in reality, they never completed the program or received that degree. The claim of having the degree is a falsehood, as it is an untrue statement made on an official document to gain a benefit or qualification.

• Example 3: Public Statement

  During a public debate, a political candidate asserts that their opponent voted against a popular bill, when public records clearly show the opponent actually voted in favor of it. The candidate's assertion about the opponent's vote is a falsehood because it is a factually incorrect statement made to influence public opinion, regardless of whether it was an honest mistake or an intentional misrepresentation.