Forgery is a non-violent crime typically committed for financial gain or deceit. 18 U.S.C § 471 states that whoever has the intent to defraud, falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any legal document or public governmental record shall be punished. Additionally, if the forgery is committed to defraud the government or if there are multiple victims scattered throughout multiple states the federal government will press charges against you.
In order to prove a federal forgery crime, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you actually had the specific intent to defraud. If you are convicted, you will be facing a 10-year felony including prison time and fines ranging from $10,000.00 to $25,000.00.
Because Congress has passed multiple statutes that deal with the various different types of forgery crimes hiring an experienced attorney is essential to your defense. If you have been charged with the federal crime of forgery in the Oakland, Wayne or Macomb County communities of Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, Warren, Troy or any surrounding area and want the best legal representation, call Michigan Criminal Attorney Barton Morris at (248) 541-2600. Attorney Barton W. Morris, Jr., was recently voted Top Attorney in Metro Detroit for 2012 and 2013. Having conducted multiple dozens of jury trials gives him the experience necessary to effectively handle every criminal matter and persuade any jury that the prosecution cannot and has not proven their case.