KRS 523.030: Perjury in the Second Degree

What Is KRS 523.030?

KRS 523.030 is Kentucky’s second-degree perjury statute. It applies to false sworn statements where the materiality requirement of first-degree perjury isn’t met. People in Lexington and Louisville face these misdemeanor charges in cases involving false sworn statements.

What the Statute Prohibits

A person commits second-degree perjury when they make a false sworn statement which they don’t believe to be true. Unlike first-degree perjury, the statement need not be material.

Penalties Under KRS 523.030

Class A misdemeanor: Up to 12 months in jail
Substantial fines

Common Cases

Misstatements on sworn affidavits
False statements in routine sworn applications
Misrepresentations under oath about non-material matters

Defenses Available

You believed the statement was true
The statement wasn’t actually false
You weren’t under oath
Retraction in some cases

Why Even Misdemeanor Perjury Matters

Any perjury conviction creates a permanent record involving dishonesty — particularly damaging for professionals. Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

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