Orange County Forgery Lawyer

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Forgery Attorney In Orange County, CA

Forgery is a significant criminal offense in California, and being charged with it can result in severe consequences. Whether you have been accused of altering documents, using forged signatures, or creating counterfeit items, having skilled legal counsel to defend you is critical. An experienced Orange County forgery lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.

Are you facing forgery charges in Orange County? Call The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman today at 714-879-5770 or contact us online to meet with our Orange County forgery lawyer!

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Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.

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What is Forgery?

Forgery refers to falsely making, altering, or imitating documents, signatures, or other legal items intended to deceive or defraud others. This crime often involves creating or altering checks, contracts, identification cards, and other documents used for personal gain or to cause harm to others. Forgery is not limited to the physical act of creating a false document—it can also include using or presenting forged documents as genuine.

Forgery can occur in many different contexts, including:

  • Forgery of financial documents: such as checks, promissory notes, and credit card statements.
  • Forgery of legal documents: including contracts, deeds, or wills.
  • Signature forgery: signing someone else’s name without authorization.
  • Identity theft: using false information to impersonate another person.

The critical element of a forgery charge is intent—there must be an intention to deceive or defraud someone.

What is Forgery?

Forgery refers to falsely making, altering, or imitating documents, signatures, or other legal items intended to deceive or defraud others. This crime often involves creating or altering checks, contracts, identification cards, and other documents used for personal gain or to cause harm to others. Forgery is not limited to the physical act of creating a false document—it can also include using or presenting forged documents as genuine.

Forgery can occur in many different contexts, including:

  • Forgery of financial documents: such as checks, promissory notes, and credit card statements.
  • Forgery of legal documents: including contracts, deeds, or wills.
  • Signature forgery: signing someone else’s name without authorization.
  • Identity theft: using false information to impersonate another person.

The critical element of a forgery charge is intent—there must be an intention to deceive or defraud someone.

What are the Penalties for Forgery in California?

In California, forgery is generally charged as a felony offense, though it can be treated as a misdemeanor in some instances. If convicted, the penalties for forgery can be severe and may include:

  • Imprisonment: Felony forgery can result in up to 3 years in state prison, and misdemeanor forgery may result in up to 1 year in county jail.
  • Fines: The court may impose a fine of up to $10,000 for felony forgery.
  • Probation: Sometimes, the court may grant probation instead of imprisonment, which often involves strict terms and conditions.
  • Restitution: You may be required to compensate the victim for any financial losses from the forgery.

Additionally, a conviction for forgery can result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect future employment opportunities, housing, and more.

Defenses Against Forgery Charges

Several defenses can be raised to challenge a forgery charge. A skilled Orange County forgery lawyer can help identify the best defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case. Some common defenses against forgery charges include:

  • Lack of intent to defraud: If you did not intend to deceive or defraud anyone, the prosecution may be unable to prove the necessary elements of forgery.
  • Mistaken identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person who committed the forgery, demonstrating your innocence may be a valid defense.
  • Consent: If the person whose signature was forged or the document altered permitted you to do so, this may be a valid defense.
  • Inability to prove the forgery: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the document was forged and that you were responsible. If insufficient evidence supports the charge, the case may be dismissed.
  • Entrapment: If law enforcement led you to commit the crime, you may be able to argue that you were entrapped into forging a document.

Each case is different, and the appropriate defense will depend on the specifics of your situation. A skilled attorney can assess the details of your case and develop a strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman today to schedule a consultation!

ANAHEIM, CA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWS FAQ'S

Yes, a homicide charge may be reduced or dismissed based on various factors such as lack of evidence, successful plea negotiations, or presenting a strong defense that justifies the actions taken.

Contact Our Orange County Forgery Attorney Today

Forgery charges in California are serious, and a conviction can have long-lasting consequences. If you are facing forgery charges, it is crucial to have an experienced Orange County forgery lawyer on your side to guide you through the legal process. With the proper defense, you may be able to reduce the charges or even have the case dismissed. Contact an attorney to discuss your case and explore the best options for your defense.

If you are dealing with forgery charges, don’t wait. Speak with an Orange County forgery lawyer to explore your legal options and secure the best possible outcome!