What legal term refers to the act of misleading a court or tribunal?

The term that describes the act of misleading a court or tribunal is perjury. Perjury specifically refers to the act of lying under oath, which occurs when an individual knowingly gives false information during legal proceedings. This is a serious offense, as it undermines the integrity of the judicial system and can lead to legal consequences for the person who commits perjury.

In the context of legal proceedings, the expectation is that individuals provide truthful information to ensure justice is served. Therefore, when someone intentionally provides false testimony or evidence while under oath, they are committing perjury. It is not merely an act of deception; it is a legal violation with significant repercussions.

The other terms, while related to dishonesty or misconduct, do not specifically pertain to the act of misleading a court. For instance, fraud involves deceit for personal gain, malfeasance refers to wrongdoing or misconduct, especially by a public official, and misrepresentation involves providing false information, but not necessarily in a legal context. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the legal implications of each term.