What Happens if Witnesses Lie to a Federal Grand Jury?

Question from Ten 1, What Happens if Witnesses Lie to a Federal Grand Jury?

Answer from AI:

If it’s proven that prosecution witnesses lied to a Federal Grand Jury about material falsehoods pertaining to 7 of the 14 charges in the indictment, several legal consequences can follow. These consequences can affect both the witnesses and the charges in the indictment.

Consequences for Witnesses

Lying to a Federal Grand Jury is a serious offense. Witnesses who provide false testimony can face:

• Perjury Charges: Under 18 U.S.C. § 1623, making false declarations before a grand jury is a federal crime. Conviction can result in fines and imprisonment for up to five years.
• Obstruction of Justice: Witnesses may also be charged with obstruction of justice under 18 U.S.C. § 1503 if their false testimony was intended to impede the judicial process.
• Contempt of Court: The court may hold the witnesses in contempt, which can lead to additional penalties.

Impact on the Affected Charges

If it is proven that the false testimony was material to 7 of the 14 charges, the following can happen:

1. Dismissal of Affected Charges: The court may dismiss the charges that were based on the false testimony. This is because the integrity of the grand jury process has been compromised.
2. Re-indictment: The prosecution may seek a new indictment if they can present sufficient evidence without relying on the false testimony.

Impact on the Unaffected Charges

For the remaining 7 charges that were not influenced by the false testimony:

• Proceeding with the Case: These charges can still proceed to trial if there is sufficient evidence to support them.
• Review of Evidence: The defense may request a review of all evidence to ensure that none of the remaining charges were indirectly affected by the false testimony.

Legal Advice and Next Steps

Given the complexity and seriousness of the situation, it is crucial to consult with a legal professional. A lawyer can provide personalized advice and help navigate the legal process. Here are some general steps to consider:

1. Consult an Attorney: Seek legal counsel to understand your rights and options.
2. File a Motion: Your attorney may file a motion to dismiss the affected charges based on the false testimony.
3. Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that can support the claim of false testimony.
4. Prepare for Re-indictment: Be prepared for the possibility of re-indictment on the affected charges.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the [U.S. Code on Perjury](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/1623) and the [U.S. Code on Obstruction of Justice](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/1503).

Remember, this information is general in nature and should not be taken as specific legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for guidance tailored to your specific situation.