Forgery is defined as an illegal action that someone completes with the knowledge of creating, using, or altering documents. These documents can be fake or they can be legitimate documents that are altered to serve the purpose of defrauding and deceiving an individual. Fake checks, official documents that have been altered, and even forging someone else’s signature are all acts of forgery and forgery is a serious offense.
If you have been charged with forgery, it is important to contact your Arizona criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. You need an attorney with the understanding and the knowledge to deal with this type of crime and the charges that you may be dealing with as a result. If you are convicted of forgery charges, the penalties you could face are very strict. They can range anywhere from jail time and probation to a long time serving community service. If you’ve been accused of forgery in Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale or the surrounding area it is important to give Myles A. Schneider & Associates a call before talking to the police.
Types Of Forgery
Most forgery claims come out of the workplace. The company can commit forgery, as can an employee. Some individuals are even charged with illegal business practices by the state of Arizona or by the federal government.
Here are some of the most commonly forged documents:
- Personal checks
- Driver’s licenses
- Identification cards
- Signatures
- Legal certificates
- Legal documents
- Financial documents
- Credit cards
The replication of coins, art, money, and stamps is also considered forgery. The passing on of forged documents to an individual or group of individuals or even the intent of passing on such documentation can constitute forgery.
Forgery Penalties
If you receive a forgery conviction, the penalties set by the court can be rather serious. It is possible to receive a prison sentence of up to 10 years, probation, huge fines, restitution to the parties that were injured by the act, community service, and marks on your permanent record. In addition, your reputation can be ruined and this can make it difficult to find employment, rent or buy a home, obtain a loan, and various other things.
Forgery can be a complicated matter, but it does have to be proven that the crime was, in fact, committed by the person accused of it and that’s where your Phoenix forgery attorney comes in. It is very important that you receive a solid defense by an attorney who knows how to navigate the law and get positive results.
Contact An Arizona Forgery Lawyer
If you have been charged with forgery or you are being investigated for it, you need an aggressive, knowledgeable, and competent attorney to help you through the legal process. Even if there is some merit to the charges, you do have rights that need to be defended and it is possible to have the penalties reduced. To find out more about how we can help you, call us 24/7 at 602-926-7373 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation.
Have you been charged with a crime? Get in touch with a qualified and professional Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case! Our legal experts will fight for your rights and you will get you justice you deserve.
