What should you know about forgery?

As a resident of Pennsylvania, facing charges of forgery can come at a surprising cost. Marinaro Law is here to explain exactly what sort of consequences you risk facing if you’re ever convicted of a forgery-related charge.

First of all, in order for an act to be considered forgery, it must entail one of the following. Either you must deliver something that you know is a forgery, you must have a hand in the creation, transfer, or distribution of a forgery, or you must knowingly alter the writing of someone else without their permission to do so.

Deception is not actually a component of forgery. However, you must have completed an act of forgery with the specific intention to defraud.

Being convicted of forgery can come with heavy consequences that include possible probation and even jail time. It will also leave you with a criminal record, which can impact your ability to get certain jobs or integrate into new communities.

The lowest conviction charge for a forgery is a misdemeanor of the first degree. This alone can result in up to 5 years in prison, and a maximum penalty cost of $10,000. For third degree felony forgery charges, you could face up to 7 years in prison and a maximum fine of $15,000.

If you are facing charges of forgery or charges related to forgery, please take a look at our web page. It’s important to understand the severity of the charges you face in order to be prepared to fight them, which you may wish to do with the help of an attorney.