Iowa criminal charge
Perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction in Iowa
Perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction is a Class “D” Felony under Iowa criminal law, defined by Iowa Code § 720.2. As a Class “D” Felony, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Iowa sets for that offense class. Iowa classifies offenses as class “A” through class “D” felonies and as aggravated, serious, or simple misdemeanors. Felony prison terms are indeterminate maximums — the statutes set only the ceiling, and release timing is determined by the board of parole.
Defined by Iowa Code § 720.2.
What is the penalty for perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction in Iowa?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 5 years (indeterminate term (§902.3); maximum only, release determined by the board of parole) | discretionary | Iowa Code § 902.9 |
| Fine | $1,025 to $10,245 (§911 surcharges added on top) | mandatory | Iowa Code § 902.9 |
Applies to current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074).
Common questions about perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction in Iowa
Is perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction a felony or a misdemeanor in Iowa?
What are the penalties for perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction in Iowa?
As a Class “D” Felony, perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction carries up to 5 years (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of $1,025 to $10,245 under Iowa Code § 902.9 (current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074)).
Which Iowa statute covers perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction?
Perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction is governed by Iowa Code § 720.2 (Perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.