Indio Forgery Lawyer

Defending Against Forgery Charges in California

When faced with allegations of forgery, navigating the complex legal landscape can be overwhelming. At the Law Offices of Anastacio De La Cruz, we provide experienced legal representation for individuals dealing with forgery charges in California. Our forgery attorneys in Indio are here to ensure you receive the comprehensive support they need during these challenging times.

Call the Law Offices of Anastacio De La Cruz today at (760) 610-0606 or contact us online to request a consultation with our forgery attorney in Indio.

What is Forgery?

Forgery refers to creating, altering, or using a document, signature, or other object intending to deceive or defraud. In the state of California, forgery is considered a white-collar crime encompassing many fraudulent activities. Common instances of forgery include falsifying checks, contracts, deeds, or financial records and even creating counterfeit currency.

What are the Penalties for Forgery in California?

Forgery convictions in California can lead to severe penalties, as the state takes these offenses seriously. The consequences vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, the value of the forged item, and the defendant's criminal history.Generally, forgery penalties include:

• Misdemeanor Forgery: For cases involving minor offenses or documents of lesser value, a misdemeanor conviction can result in up to one year in county jail and/or fines up to $1,000.
• Felony Forgery: More serious cases, such as forging official documents or financial instruments, can be charged as felonies. Felony forgery convictions can lead to imprisonment in state prison for up to three years and significant fines.
• Aggravated Forgery: The penalties can be even more severe when forgery involves certain aggravating factors, such as victimizing elders or dependent adults or using the forged document to facilitate another crime.

It's crucial to note that aside from legal penalties, forgery convictions can also have lasting social and professional consequences, impacting one's reputation and future opportunities.

Defenses Against Forgery Charges

Some common defenses against forgery charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: For a forgery conviction, intent to defraud is critical. If it can be proven that the accused had no intention to deceive or defraud, the charges may be challenged.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may be wrongly accused of forgery due to mistaken identity. We diligently investigate the evidence and circumstances to uncover any inconsistencies or errors.
• Duress or Coercion: If the accused was forced or coerced into committing the forgery, this can serve as a defense to mitigate the charges.
• Insufficient Evidence: Our experienced attorneys thoroughly review the evidence against our clients to identify any weaknesses or lack of substantial proof that can weaken the prosecution's case.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: If law enforcement officers had violated the defendant's constitutional rights during the investigation or arrest, it may be possible to have evidence suppressed or the charges dismissed.

Contact Our Forgery Attorney in Indio Today

At the Law Offices of Anastacio De La Cruz, we offer skilled legal representation to navigate the complexities of forgery cases. We are committed to protecting your rights, exploring all possible defenses, and striving for the best possible outcome.

Don't face forgery charges alone. Our Indio forgery lawyer will assess the details of your case, help explain your legal options, and guide you to make informed decisions about your defense. Your future is our priority, and we are here to defend your rights every step of the way.

Contact Law Offices of Anastacio De La Cruz today to get started on your defense with our Indio forgery lawyer.