Westchester County Forgery Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Against Forgery Charges in New York

Forgery is considered a serious criminal offense in New York. If you are convicted of forgery, you could face years in prison, substantial fines, and other severe penalties. At Riebling & Payton, PLLC, our Westchester County forgery attorneys are prepared to help you fight the charges. We can help you navigate the legal process and work to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Call Riebling & Payton, PLLC today at (914) 712-6878 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our forgery attorney in Westchester County.

What is Forgery?

Forgery is a serious criminal offense involving the creation, alteration, or imitation of a document intending to deceive or defraud. In the context of Westchester County, New York, forgery encompasses a broad spectrum of activities, ranging from falsifying signatures on checks to creating counterfeit legal documents. The state takes a firm stance against forgery, recognizing its potential to undermine trust and compromise the integrity of various transactions. Forgery can manifest in different forms, including the forging of financial instruments, legal documents, or even the falsification of identification.

What are the Penalties for Forgery in New York?

New York's legal system imposes stringent penalties for forgery convictions. The severity of the punishment depends on various factors, such as the type of document forged, the intent behind the act, and the individual's criminal history. In New York, penalties for forgery may include fines, probation, and, in more severe cases, incarceration.

Forgery charges are often classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with corresponding penalties:

• Misdemeanor Forgery: Misdemeanor charges are generally applied to less severe cases of forgery. Individuals convicted of misdemeanor forgery may face fines, community service, and a possible jail sentence of up to one year.
• Felony Forgery: Felony charges are reserved for more serious instances of forgery, such as the creation of counterfeit money, forged deeds, or other high-value documents. Convictions for felony forgery can result in substantial fines, lengthy prison sentences, and lasting consequences on an individual's criminal record.

Defenses Against Forgery Charges

Some common defenses against forgery charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Proving intent is crucial in forgery cases. If it can be demonstrated that there was no intention to deceive or defraud, the charges may be contested.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence is a common defense strategy. We can meticulously review all evidence, looking for inconsistencies or gaps that could weaken the case against you.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may be wrongfully accused due to mistaken identity. Establishing a solid alibi and presenting evidence of misidentification can be pivotal in such situations.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If evidence was obtained unlawfully, it may be deemed inadmissible in court. We can rigorously examine the circumstances of your arrest to ensure your rights were not violated.

Contact Our Westchester County Forgery Attorney Today

If you are facing forgery charges, time is of the essence. Delaying legal action can have serious consequences on the outcome of your case. Our Westchester County forgery lawyers at Riebling & Payton, PLLC, let us provide you with the strategic, results-driven representation you need.

Contact Riebling & Payton, PLLC, today to get started with our Westchester County forgery lawyer.