What action constitutes perjury in the second degree?

Perjury in the second degree typically involves making a false statement during a legal proceeding or in a written declaration that is intended to be used in a legal context. The correct answer focuses specifically on making a false statement that is intended to mislead a public servant, emphasizing the deliberate intent behind the falsehood. This highlights the crucial element of intent in the definition of perjury; it is not just about making a false statement, but about the goal of misleading someone who is in a position of authority or responsibility.

Choosing this option reflects an understanding of the legal elements necessary to prove perjury in many jurisdictions. The intention to deceive a public official shows a clear breach of the obligation to provide truthful information to the legal system, which is foundational for maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings and interactions with authorities.

The other options either do not capture the nuanced requirement of intent needed for perjury or describe actions that do not fit the traditional legal definition of perjury. For instance, swearing falsely in any legal matter could encompass a broader set of actions that may not meet the specific legal threshold of intent to mislead. Ignoring a subpoena involves failing to comply with a legal request but does not inherently relate to dishonesty or providing misinformation. Offering false testimony without any