Forgery Charges: Defending Against Serious Financial and Legal Consequences
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we understand that allegations of forgery can threaten your freedom, finances, and reputation. Forgery charges often involve accusations of altering or creating documents, checks, or signatures with the intent to deceive. Our office, based in Southern California, has the resources and legal insight to analyze complex financial records and collaborate with forensic experts. If you or someone you know is facing a forgery investigation, call (949) 439-5857 for a free, confidential consultation.
What is Forgery?
Forgery generally refers to the act of creating or modifying a document or financial instrument with the intent to commit fraud. Depending on the jurisdiction, forgery can encompass:
Check Forgery
Writing, altering, or depositing a fraudulent check
Signature Forgery
Falsely signing someone else’s name on contracts, deeds, wills, or other legal documents
Counterfeiting Documents
Reproducing or altering government IDs, passports, or currency
Falsifying Corporate Records
Manipulating invoices, tax returns, or financial statements
In many instances, the prosecution will attempt to show intent—that you knowingly created or altered a document for personal gain or to inflict financial harm on another party.
Potential Consequences
Criminal Penalties
Depending on whether it’s charged as a misdemeanor or felony, forgery can lead to jail time, hefty fines, and extended probation.
Restitution
Courts may order the payment of restitution to victims who have suffered financial losses due to the forgery.
Collateral Damage
A forgery conviction can affect professional licenses, employment opportunities, and access to financial services.
Civil Lawsuits
Victims of forgery may file separate civil lawsuits seeking damages, which can add additional financial stress.
Our Approach
Evidence Review and Investigation
We scrutinize all documents, financial records, and communications relevant to your case. By partnering with handwriting experts, forensic accountants, and investigators, we can identify procedural errors or inconsistencies that weaken the prosecution’s evidence.
Analyzing Intent
Forgery cases often hinge on whether you intentionally committed fraud. We look for any indication of misunderstandings, mistakes, or lack of knowledge to challenge the notion of criminal intent.
Negotiation and Defense Strategy
If negotiations with prosecutors can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing, we’ll aggressively pursue those options. When a fair resolution isn’t possible, our attorneys are prepared to defend you at trial—questioning the chain of custody for evidence, cross-examining expert witnesses, and raising doubt about the prosecution’s narrative.
Protecting Your Reputation
Allegations of forgery can harm your standing in professional and personal circles. We remain sensitive to the collateral consequences and strive to minimize reputational damage while working toward the best possible outcome.
Why Choose Simmons Wagner, LLP in Irvine, CA, for Forgery Defense?
- Financial and Legal Insight
Our firm brings together legal acumen and a deep understanding of financial regulations, enabling us to address intricate paper trails and financial documents effectively. - Collaborative Network
We work with experienced experts in handwriting analysis, forensic accounting, and digital investigations to dispute questionable evidence. - Client-Centered Philosophy
We see every client as an individual rather than just another case. We keep you informed and involved in the decision-making process from start to finish. - Local Roots, Broad Reach
Based in Irvine, we represent clients throughout Orange County and beyond. Our proficiency in navigating both state and federal courts helps us handle cases with complex jurisdictional issues.
Contact Us
A forgery accusation can upend your life, but it doesn’t have to define your future. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we stand ready to protect your rights and your reputation. Call us at (949) 439-5857 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Our dedicated legal team will fight to ensure every detail is thoroughly examined, and every available defense is pursued on your behalf.