Long Beach Forgery Defense Lawyers

At The Justice Firm, we understand the serious consequences an individual may face if convicted of forgery. Whether you are under investigation or have been arrested, it is vital to work with a skilled, aggressive criminal defense attorney who will fight to protect your legal rights and freedom.

Often times, police may try to convince you they just want to ask you some questions - that you are not in any trouble. Police use a wide variety of tactics to "trap" suspected offenders into incriminating themselves, so it is important you never speak to police regarding forgery charges in Long Beach without first speaking to an experienced defense lawyer. Essentially, forgery is the act of illegally or unlawfully signing a document without the consent or approval of the rightful owner, such as a bank check. A form of identity theft, forgery is considered a white collar crime in California however the criminal penalties for a conviction are serious.

California Penal Code sections 470 to 483.5 define the various types of forgery crimes. When you intentionally commit fraud by doing any of the following, you are guilty of committing forgery:

• Signing a name that is not your own to a document
• Falsifying or altering a court judgment, will, conveyance, or codicil
• Alter or make false documents, or offer as genuine/legitimate such documents as:
  • Lottery tickets
  • Money orders, cashier's or traveler's checks
  • Bank notes, checks, bonds
  • Release or discharge of any real or personal debt
  • Promissory note, bill of exchange, or assignment of any bond
  • Certificate of ownership, power of attorney, trading stamp
  • Request for payment of money
  • Due bill for payment of money, property receipt for property or money, or contracts

Forgery may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony in the state of California, depending on the circumstances. This offense is often committed in conjunction with other crimes, such as counterfeiting money or fraud.

The consequences you face if found guilty of forgery depend on whether the offense was charged as a misdemeanor or felony, along with other factors. If charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction will result in a maximum of one year in county jail. If charged as a felony, a conviction could result in up to three (3) years in prison. In addition, you may face substantial fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. In situations where an individual has one or more existing "strikes" on his/her criminal record, you may face penalties that are even harsher under the state's Three Strikes Law.

At The Justice Firm, our Long Beach forgery attorneys understand the uncertainty and fear you are experiencing. No one wants to spend time behind bars, or have a criminal record which could negatively impact his/her life forever. Our top priority is to obtain the best possible result, whether having charges dismissed/reduced or obtaining an acquittal at trial. Contact us now for a free consultation at 310-914-2444.