Is forgery a big deal? It may depend on the circumstances, but if you're facing charges of forgery, it's probably a pretty big deal to you. This white-collar crime is taken seriously by law enforcement and can result in some serious penalties. If you have been charged with forgery, it's important to understand the charges against you and your legal options.
Understanding Fraud and White-Collar Crimes
Forgery is the criminal act of fraudulently making or altering a document or object with the intent to perpetrate a fraud. It can result in not only fraud charges, but also counterfeiting, which carries its own set of penalties. White-collar crimes related to forgery can involve fraud through bank fraud, securities fraud, or identity theft.
Due to the nature of white-collar crimes, these cases are often handled in federal court which could result in harsher penalties. The potential consequences for forgery under federal law are significant and include prison sentences, asset seizures and steep fines.
Types of Forgery
Forgery is a crime that includes the making, signing, altering and use of falsified documents with the intent to deceive. Its purpose is to obtain property or money or to make it possible for another person to do so. From creating fake checks and bank notes to producing fake deeds or real estate documents and even altering the time or place of signature, forgers employ deceptive tactics and tools in order to make illegal gains.
Legal Penalties for Forgery in Texas
Texas has several specific laws protecting against forgery according to Texas Penal Code Title 7 Chapter 32. In general, fraud crimes are punished according to the value of the ill-gotten gains or the degree of harm. In Texas, depending on the severity of the crime and other aggravating factors, forgery may be classified either as a third-degree felony or a misdemeanor.
If convicted of a felony, the offender will face up to ten years imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. A misdemeanor charge carries with it lesser penalties including no more than one year in jail and fines of not more than $4,000. In either case, committing forgery is a serious matter and Texas does not take these unlawful acts lightly.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney
When facing a legal issue, it is essential to enlist the services of an experienced attorney. A qualified legal professional will be able to guide you through the often difficult and overwhelming legal process. They should have sufficient knowledge of applicable laws and regulations, a thorough understanding of the legal system, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills to handle your case in the best way possible.
Having access to such expertise and resources can help secure desired outcomes for whatever situation you are presented with. Don't hesitate - consulting with a qualified attorney can make all the difference in achieving successful results. Contact Shane Phelps Law today and get the legal guidance you deserve.