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Navigating California PC 118 Felony Perjury: Bailbond Option Explained

Written by Bail House | Feb 9, 2026 4:00:00 PM

If you or someone you care about has been accused of Perjury under California law, it can feel confusing and intimidating—especially because many people assume it’s “just a paperwork issue.” In reality, PC 118 Felony PERJURY is a serious allegation that can lead to jail or prison time, fines, probation conditions, and long-term consequences that follow you far beyond the courtroom. And if an Arrest happens, the next immediate question is often: Can they get out, and how fast?

This guide breaks down what felony perjury typically involves, why it’s treated so seriously, and how Bailbond options work—including what to expect if you’re searching Bail Bonds Near Me in Auburn California. We’ll also explain how Bail House Bail Bonds can help during a stressful time.

What Is PC 118 Felony Perjury?

Perjury generally means knowingly making a false statement while under oath. In California, PC 118 addresses situations where a person willfully states something untrue as fact, while they are legally required to tell the truth under penalty of perjury.

Perjury can come up in more places than people realize, including:

  • Court testimony (criminal or civil cases)
  • Declarations signed under penalty of perjury
  • Sworn affidavits
  • Certain official statements in legal filings

The key issue is not just that a statement was wrong—it’s whether the person knew it was false and still said it anyway, under oath.

Why Perjury Is Charged as a Felony

California takes Perjury seriously because the justice system depends on truthful information. False statements can:

  • Mislead judges and juries
  • Harm innocent people
  • Alter outcomes in criminal trials, family court, restraining order cases, and more
  • Waste court resources and time

Because perjury undermines the legal process itself, it’s often treated more harshly than people expect. A perjury allegation is not something to shrug off or “wait and see.” It demands a fast, careful response—especially if an Arrest occurs and bail is set.

Common Situations That Lead to Perjury Allegations

Many perjury accusations stem from high-pressure moments where someone panics, exaggerates, or tries to protect themselves or someone else. Some common examples include:

1) Testifying in court and “stretching the truth”

A person may claim they “didn’t see” something they did see, or deny facts that can be proven.

2) Signing documents under penalty of perjury

Some legal forms and written statements include perjury language at the end. If someone knowingly lies in those documents, it can become a felony issue.

3) Statements in family law or restraining order matters

Custody disputes, financial disclosures, and DV-related filings can become heated. False statements in sworn filings can trigger perjury investigations.

4) Attempts to protect another person

Sometimes perjury happens when someone lies to cover for a friend, partner, or family member—thinking they’re being loyal. Unfortunately, it can create an entirely new felony problem.

What the Prosecution Usually Must Prove

While every case is different, felony perjury typically revolves around a few central questions:

  • Were you legally under oath or under penalty of perjury?
  • Was the statement actually false?
  • Did you know it was false when you said it?
  • Was it presented as a fact—not just an opinion, mistake, or misunderstanding?

That “knowledge” element matters. People can misremember events, get dates wrong, or misunderstand questions. Those situations aren’t automatically perjury. But if law enforcement or prosecutors believe a statement was intentionally false, a perjury charge can follow.

After an Arrest: How Bail Typically Comes Into Play

If someone is arrested for Perjury, they may be:

  • Booked into jail
  • Held until bail is posted
  • Given a court date for arraignment

In many cases, families immediately start searching Bail Bonds Near Me, trying to find a reliable Bail bondsman or Bail Agent who can help them understand the process and get their loved one home.

Bail: what it is (in plain language)

Bail is essentially a financial guarantee that the person will return to court. When bail is posted, the person is released with the expectation they’ll appear at all hearings and follow any release conditions.

What affects bail amount?

Bail can depend on several factors, including:

  • The county’s bail schedule (if applicable)
  • Criminal history
  • Whether the person has missed court in the past
  • Whether there are other related allegations
  • The judge’s view of “flight risk” or public safety concerns

Even if perjury is non-violent, it can still carry serious bail requirements depending on circumstances.

How a Bailbond Works

A Bailbond (also commonly written as Bail Bond) is a way to post bail without paying the full amount out-of-pocket. Generally, a bail bond allows you to pay a portion (often a set percentage) through a licensed agency, and the bond company posts the full bail to the court to secure release.

A reliable Bail Agent will walk you through:

  • The bail amount and what it means
  • The paperwork and requirements
  • What the cosigner is responsible for
  • Court appearance expectations
  • Timeline and release logistics

If you’re in or near Auburn California, working with a local team can help speed up the process, especially when time matters most.

What to Do Immediately If Someone Is Arrested for Perjury

When someone is facing a perjury accusation, the situation can become stressful fast. Here are practical steps that help:

  1. Stay calm and gather information
    Find out where they are being held and whether bail has been set.
  2. Do not try to “explain the case” to everyone
    Perjury cases often involve statements and documents. Loose talk can create more confusion or risk.
  3. Contact a bail professional early
    A reputable Bail bondsman can explain the release process and what will be needed.
  4. Encourage strict court compliance
    The biggest mistake after release is missing court or violating conditions. That can create additional charges and bigger problems.
  5. Have identification and basic details ready
    A bail agency may need full name, DOB, location, booking number (if available), and the charge details.

Can Perjury Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Some perjury allegations come from misunderstandings, memory errors, poor wording, or situations where “intent” is hard to prove. Outcomes vary, but defense strategies often focus on issues like:

  • Lack of intent (you didn’t knowingly lie)
  • Ambiguous or confusing questioning
  • Statements that were opinions, not facts
  • Errors in interpretation or documentation
  • Insufficient evidence that the statement was actually false

That said, none of that helps if the person is stuck in jail awaiting court. That’s why bail support matters: it gives the accused a chance to return home, keep working, support family, and meet with their attorney more effectively.

7 Q&A: PC 118 Felony Perjury and Bail Bonds

1) Is perjury always a felony in California?
Perjury under PC 118 is commonly filed as a felony. The exact filing decision and outcome depend on the facts, evidence, and circumstances of the case.

2) If someone is arrested for perjury, can they bail out right away?
In many cases, yes—bail may be posted as soon as bail is set and the jail can process the release. A Bail Agent can help confirm the bail amount and begin the Bailbond process quickly.

3) What does “under penalty of perjury” mean?
It means you’re legally promising the statement is true, and you can face criminal penalties if you knowingly lie. It often appears on legal forms and signed declarations.

4) What information do I need to get a Bail Bond started?
Usually: the person’s full name, date of birth, where they’re being held, the charge (Perjury / PC 118), and any booking details available. If you don’t have everything, a good Bail bondsman can still help you track it down.

5) Will the bail amount be the same for everyone charged with perjury?
Not necessarily. Bail can depend on county guidelines, criminal history, and a judge’s assessment. Two people with the same charge can still have different bail amounts.

6) What happens if someone released on bail misses court?
Missing court can trigger a warrant and can cause bail to be forfeited. It also makes the case much harder moving forward. Court compliance is critical.

7) I searched “Bail Bonds Near Me” in Auburn California—what should I look for in a bail agency?
Look for clear communication, transparency, professionalism, and responsiveness. You want a team that explains the process, answers questions quickly, and helps you understand your responsibilities—not one that rushes you or leaves you confused.

What Makes Bail House Bail Bonds Stand Out

When someone is arrested, you don’t just need a Bail Bond—you need clarity, speed, and respect. Bail House Bail Bondsstands out because the focus isn’t just on processing paperwork—it’s on helping families make smart moves during a stressful moment.

Here’s what people often value most when working with Bail House Bail Bonds in the Auburn area:

  • Fast, responsive communication when time matters most
  • A straightforward process that doesn’t leave you guessing
  • Professional, respectful support—because nobody needs judgment during an Arrest
  • Clear explanations from an experienced Bail Agent so you understand your responsibilities
  • Help that’s focused on court compliance, so you can avoid additional complications
  • A local, community-oriented approach that understands what families in Auburn California need
  • Reliable service when you’re searching “Bail Bonds Near Me” and you want someone you can actually trust

If you’re stressed, overwhelmed, and just trying to get your person home, having a dependable Bail bondsman can make all the difference.