Forgery encompasses many wrongful acts, including identity theft and falsifying documents. Being accused of forgery is a serious matter. A conviction can result in significant prison sentences and fines.
Our criminal defense lawyers at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers have over 100 years of collective experience in thousands of cases. Our legal team includes former prosecutors and police officers, which gives us a unique understanding of all aspects of criminal cases.
Contact us today at (317) 759-2599 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Indianapolis forgery lawyers.
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How Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You With Forgery Charges in Indiana
Forgery is a white-collar crime, usually involving fraud or theft. Committing forgery could result in multiple misdemeanors and felony charges. Depending on the circumstances, forgery could result in federal or state charges.
The best way to fight forgery charges is with the help of an experienced forgery defense lawyer. Our lawyers at Suhre & Associates have received high praise and top ratings from clients and peers. We have received recognition and awards from such organizations as Avvo, Super Lawyers, and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
When you hire our top-rated Indianapolis criminal defense lawyers, you can expect us to:
- Investigate the circumstances that led to the forgery charges
- Discuss your legal options, including taking your case to trial and negotiating a plea bargain
- Analyze the state’s evidence against you, including searching for exculpatory evidence that could prove your innocence
- Use evidence and legal arguments to develop defenses to the forgery charges
- Fiercely advocate for your rights in all hearings, plea discussions, and trials
Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule your free case evaluation with an experienced Indianapolis forgery lawyer.
What Are the Legal Elements of Fraud in Indiana?
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt all elements of a forgery charge. Indiana Criminal Code §35-43-5-2 states that someone commits forgery when they intend to defraud someone using a written instrument that suggests the instrument was made:
- By another person;
- At another time;
- With different provisions; OR,
- By authority of someone who did not give such authority.
Uttering, making, or possessing such a document with the intent to defraud is a Level 6 felony offense in Indiana. Simply put, forgery is altering or creating a document intended to deceive someone.
Types of Forgery Crimes in Indianapolis, IN
Numerous fraudulent activities can involve forgery. Many of these crimes involve theft of property or money. Examples of crimes that can involve forgery include, but are not limited to:
- Credit card fraud
- Bank fraud
- Prescription fraud
- Counterfeiting
- Insurance fraud
- Securities fraud
- Using false documents to apply for licenses or identification cards
- Identity theft
- Check fraud
The punishment for forgery charges depends on the factors involved in the crime. Developing a defense to prove your innocence or negotiating a plea deal that minimizes the criminal consequences of a conviction is crucial.
Penalties for Fraud in Indianapolis, IN
The punishment for a Level 6 felony forgery conviction is two to eight years in prison. The court may also include a fine of up to $10,000. The penalties for federal felony charges increase substantially. You can face up to 30 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine for a felony forgery conviction.
Other penalties for a forgery conviction can include restitution and probation. Additionally, you have a criminal history that can impact numerous aspects of your life. A criminal conviction could prevent you from obtaining your desired job or a professional license.
Defenses to Forgery Charges in Indianapolis, IN
There could be one or more defenses to allegations of forgery. Examples of defenses an attorney may use include:
Challenging the Evidence
The prosecution must have sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed each element of the crime. Therefore, your attorney will carefully analyze all evidence to identify weaknesses that can be used to challenge the evidence. For example, an expert witness may be used to challenge the methods used to identify the forgery.
Lack of Intent
The intent to defraud is a key element of a forgery offense. Your attorney may argue that you believed the document was authentic or you made an alteration with the intent to defraud the alleged victim.
Coercion or Duress
Your attorney may argue that you committed the acts because someone was threatening you. In other words, you committed the forgery against your will.
Procedural Defenses
Some defenses are based on police or prosecutorial misconduct. For example, the police officers violated your Fourth Amendment rights against illegal searches. Your attorney may have evidence proving that the officers lacked probable cause to obtain a warrant or did not follow the chain of custody for evidence.
Plea Bargaining and Cooperation
In some situations, cooperating with law enforcement and negotiating a plea deal may be the best strategy for a criminal defense. However, you do not want to attempt this strategy without legal counsel. You should not answer questions or cooperate without first discussing your case with an Indianapolis forgery lawyer.
Learn More About Forgery Charges in Indiana During a Free Consultation
Do not underestimate the seriousness of forgery charges. Even if you are innocent, you need a solid defense to protect your rights. Call Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for a free case review with an Indianapolis forgery lawyer.
