Forgery is the act of falsifying, changing, counterfeiting, or creating legal documents, statements, credit cards, or identification cards with the intention to commit fraud. Common examples of forgery include duplicating someone else’s signature, making counterfeit credit cards or falsifying real estate or tax documents. California Penal Code Section 470 (a) states: “Every person who, with the intent to defraud, knowing that he or she has no authority to do so, signs the name of another person or of a fictitious person to any of the items listed in subdivision (d) is guilty of forgery.” Depending on the nature and extent of the alleged fraud, a forgery conviction can result in prison time, hefty fines, and other serious consequences.
A skilled and experienced lawyer can devise several defense strategies that can help dismiss or reduce the charges you face. One of the most important elements needed to prove that a person committed forgery is to prove that he or she had the intent to commit fraud crime. For example, when a husband signs his wife’s name on a check and the money was used for the family’s expenses, it is proof that the man did not intend to commit fraud. Also, in that case, there was no “victim” since the money was used for family expenses.
Also, when the forged or allegedly fraudulent document is invalid and cannot be used to commit a fraud, a forgery conviction cannot be obtained. In such cases, the defense attorney will have to show that although the document was forged, it does not have the power or capacity to defraud someone of money, property, or rights.
If you or a loved one has been charged with forgery in Orange County, please contact an Orange County forgery defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Jeremy Goldman at (800) 349-1619 to start preparing your defense strategy. We understand the high stakes in these types of cases and the fact that your reputation and credibility are riding on the outcome. Please call us today to find out how we can help you.
