Best Defenses for Federal Forgery Charges
Introduction
Forgery-making or modifying documents-is a federal and state felony. Forgery has serious legal repercussions, therefore it's important to grasp them. This article discusses federal forgery accusations and defenses.
What's Federal Forgery?
18 U.S.C. § 471 defines forgery as manufacturing, changing, using, or possessing a fraudulent document or material. Anyone who fraudulently manufactures, forges, counterfeits, or changes US security faces up to 20 years in federal jail and heavy fines under this provision.
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Federal forgery accusations are severe, and Spodek Law Group P.C. is here to assist you through the legal process. Our skilled criminal defense lawyers, headed by Attorney Todd Spodek, can defend you well.
When Does Forgery Become Federal?
Forgery may be a federal violation depending on the victims and investigating agency. The FBI may investigate forgeries of federal government contracts or other documents.
Forgery Penalties
Federal forgery may result in 20 years in jail and large fines. A federal district court uses the US Sentencing Guidelines and equitable criteria in Title 18, Section 3553(a) of the US Code to sentence Section 471 violators.
Federal Forgeries
Federal forgeries include federal identity cards, contracts, deeds, powers of attorney, and securities. If you are suspected with forgery, call a defense counsel immediately since federal authorities might spend a lot of money investigating.
How to Fight Federal Forgery?
Forgery cases need deception. Thus, federal prosecutors must establish that a forgery defendant intended to deceive another.
Our criminal defense lawyers at Spodek Law Group P.C. can argue that you had no intention of defrauding the alleged victim or that you didn't have the mental capacity to understand the nature of your actions. Forgery under pressure, compulsion, or with the victim are other defenses.
Conclusion
If you've been charged with federal forgery and fraud, you know how difficult your defense may be. Spodek Law Group P.C. will help you identify the appropriate defensive strategy early on. Contact us for assistance. Remember, the consequences of a forgery conviction can be severe, and obtaining legal counsel before speaking to any government agents regarding the crime you're accused of is critical.
| Federal Forgery Penalties | Punishment |
|---|---|
| Forging federal IDs, contracts, securities, and money | Up to 20 years in federal prison and hefty fines |
| Forging any deed, power of attorney, or contract to obtain money from the United States or its agents | Up to 10 years in federal prison and fines |
| Forging a Treasury check, US securities, or bond signature or endorsement | Up to 10 years in federal prison and fines |
White collar crime forgery is a non-violent financial crime. Although the victims aren't physically injured during the commission of the crime, the consequences from offenses like forgery can still be severe. Those convicted of federal forgery crimes may be required to pay hefty fines or serve lengthy federal prison sentences, or both. Additionally, restitution will be required, which can result in the seizure of assets.
Don't Wait, Contact Us Today
At Spodek Law Group P.C., we have the experience and knowledge to handle the legal situation you are facing. We will fight to protect your rights and provide you with the best legal representation possible. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. We understand that being accused of a crime can be stressful, but we are here to help you every step of the way. Remember, obtaining legal counsel before speaking to any government agents regarding the crime you're accused of is critical.