The crime of Forgery can take different forms, however, forgery typically occurs when a person signs a document without consent or authorization; signs a false name to a document; or creates a false document with the intent to perpetrate a fraud. Checks are the most commonly forged documents, although forgery of any legal document may be considered criminal conduct.

Forgery may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. Punishments for forgery may include supervised or unsupervised probation, fines and, in more serious forgery cases, jail time.

Forgery is commonly referred to as a “white collar crime,” which also includes crimes such as fraud, credit card fraud, insurance fraud, identity theft and embezzlement, among other crimes. “White Collar Crime” defense is a specialized area of criminal law, and anyone charged with forgery or a similar offense should retain a criminal defense attorney with significant experience defending individuals against such allegations. A vigorous defense often requires a comprehensive understanding of complex financial records and business transactions.

The Weinrieb Law Firm vigorously defends individuals charged with forgery and other white collar crimes. People are often wrongfully accused of forgery based on false allegations, their participation in a complex but legal financial transaction, or simply poor recordkeeping which is not criminal. The Weinrieb Law Firm always evaluates every potential defense to a forgery charge in order to vigorously protect our clients’ rights.