If a witness makes two statements that contradict each other in a court proceeding, and admits that one of them is false, s/he will not be prosecuted for perjury. This is to encourage witnesses who may have lied to correct their statements and tell the truth.

In some states it is considered a part of the perjury statute to encourage another person to commit perjury. In common litigation practice, it is very common for witnesses to contradict themselves without intending to lie.

(Previewed 12-08)