What Are Forgery Charges in Illinois?

 Posted on February 26, 2024 in Fraud

Forgery charges can be complex to deal with, and using the wrong defense strategy in court can result in serious legal consequences that follow you for a lifetime. It is important to understand the basics of Illinois forgery laws and the penalties that forgery charges may carry. A skilled Illinois forgery defense attorney can guide you through your options if you find yourself facing charges for forgery.

Understanding Illinois Forgery Laws

In Illinois, there are a few different things that may result in a forgery charge. The crime of forgery is covered in this Illinois law, and someone may be charged with forgery if they engage in one of the following actions:

• Creating false documents or altering documents to make them false

• Delivering or otherwise issuing false documents while knowing they are false

• Knowing documents in one’s possession are false and planning to deliver or use the documents

• Unlawful use of a digital signature

• Creating an electronic signature of another person to use

Additionally, deceptive practices, such as making false or deceptive statements in certain circumstances may also result in a forgery charge. It is essential to understand the specifics of what you have been charged with so you can develop an effective defense; our experienced attorney can help you with this process.

What Are the Penalties for Forgery in Illinois?

Illinois typically classifies forgery as a Class 3 felony. A conviction for a Class 3 felony for forgery can result in prison time that ranges between two and five years, along with a fine of up to $25,000. Restitutions to the victims of forgery may also need to be paid.

Forgery charges are considered a Class 4 felony when a UPC (Universal Product Code) is forged, and this may carry penalties of one to three years of jail time in addition to potential restitution. In the case that an academic degree or coin is forged, the forgery is considered a Class A misdemeanor instead.

Additionally, a conviction of forgery on your criminal record can affect your ability to secure employment, loans, housing, and financial assistance in the long term. It is absolutely essential to take every possible precaution to mitigate the consequences of a forgery conviction.

Contact an Elgin, IL Forgery Defense Attorney

Facing forgery charges is a serious thing, and you need hard-hitting legal representation willing to fight for your best interests in court as you navigate these charges. The skilled Kane County, IL forgery defense lawyer at The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola can help you understand forgery charges and their potential consequences, and develop a defense that works to secure the best legal outcome possible.

Call 847-488-0889 for a free consultation.