Legal Definitions - false statement

A false statement is a statement that is knowingly made with the intent to mislead. It can also refer to one of three distinct federal offenses:

1. Falsifying or concealing a material fact by trick, scheme, or device
2. Making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent representation
3. Making or using a false document or writing

For example, if someone lies on their tax returnin order to pay less taxes, they are making a false statement.

Another example is if someone creates a fake document to support a false claim, they are also making a false statement.

False statements are illegal and can result in serious consequences, such as fines or imprisonment.