What can be expected from a judge if someone admits to perjury and wants to recant?

[JKBee]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? WA

A young lady who has just turned 18 committed perjury to help a friend get a restraining order. Now she realizes the harm that has been done and wishes to recant her statement. What are the legal ramifications if she does so? She states she was not coerced in any way, was just young and dumb. That is no excuse, and she does not use it as such. Is there any chance of her coming out of this with just a scolding, or is this much more serious?

 

[Proserpina]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? WA

A young lady who has just turned 18 committed perjury to help a friend get a restraining order. Now she realizes the harm that has been done and wishes to recant her statement. What are the legal ramifications if she does so? She states she was not coerced in any way, was just young and dumb. That is no excuse, and she does not use it as such. Is there any chance of her coming out of this with just a scolding, or is this much more serious?

So many people recant statements relating to restraining orders, domestic violence charges etc that it's quite likely her "true" statement now won't matter one iota. But, since you did ask..what did she say exactly and to what end?

It may make a difference.

 

[JKBee]

She said that she had personally seen individual being beaten. Since this wasn't true, charges could come down to person who was innocent. She has contacted defendant's lawyer and wants to recant to avoid prosecution of innocent person.

 

[CdwJava]

She should consult an attorney before confessing to what could be the crime of perjury or making a false report to the police.

 

[Proserpina]

She said that she had personally seen individual being beaten. Since this wasn't true, charges could come down to person who was innocent. She has contacted defendant's lawyer and wants to recant to avoid prosecution of innocent person.

J, may I ask you something please?

Does this relate to your son?

(And I heartily second Carl's advice)