In legal proceedings, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. When a defendant pleads "Not Guilty," they are asserting their right to have the prosecution prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the defendant is later found guilty, it does not necessarily mean they committed perjury by pleading "Not Guilty."
Perjury is a separate offense and involves deliberately providing false information while under oath or making a false statement in a sworn affidavit or deposition. It is a serious crime and is treated as such in legal systems around the world. However, the act of pleading "Not Guilty" itself is not typically considered perjury, even if the defendant is later found guilty.
In some cases, if a defendant provides false testimony during the trial, they could potentially be charged with perjury. However, proving perjury can be challenging, as it requires demonstrating that the defendant intentionally and willfully provided false information while under oath. It is a decision that would be up to the prosecution and the judge to pursue based on the specific circumstances of the case.
Keep in mind that legal proceedings can vary based on the jurisdiction and the laws in place. Different countries and states may have specific rules and procedures regarding perjury and its prosecution. If you have specific concerns or questions about a particular case or jurisdiction, it's best to consult with a legal expert or attorney who can provide accurate and relevant information.