In New York, forgery of any kind and the possession of a forged instrument are both serious criminal offenses. If you are someone who is facing criminal charges for check forgery, it is in your best interest to acquire appropriate legal representation as soon as possible. Fraud-related offenses such as check forgery carry serious penalties including jail time. Keep reading to learn about the potential penalties of this offense and discover how an adept Rockland County Check Fraud Attorney can help you.
What is check forgery?
Under New York law, forgery is defined as, “any person that makes completes, or alters a written instrument with the intent to use it to defraud another person.” Written instruments in this sense refer to money, checks, credit cards, wills, contracts, or any legal documents. Check forgery can be committed in several different ways. Check forgery includes:
- Stealing a blank check and forging the account holder’s name.
- Stealing a check through the mail and erasing all of the information except for the account holder’s signature.
- Creating and forging a check that passes as a legitimate check.
In New York, check fraud can include check washing, paper hanging, check kiting, counterfeiting, and forgery. These offenses will result in severe penalties that will haunt you for the rest of your life as check forgery can be classified as a felony offense.
What are the penalties for this offense?
In New York, forgery of any kind carries significant penalties. Generally, fraud-related offenses such as forgery are classified as misdemeanors or felonies. When it comes to check forgery, those that create, alter, or possess fake checks will be charged with a Class A misdemeanor in the third degree. Class A misdemeanors are punishable by up to 1 year in jail and 3 years of probation. However, those that create, alter, or possess fake checks exceeding $2,000 will be charged with a Class D felony in the second degree. Class D felonies in the second degree are punishable by up to seven years of jail time and a fine of up to $5,000. If you are charged with forgery in the first degree, the offense will be classified as a Class C felony. Class C felonies are punishable by jail time of up to 15 years and a fine of up to $5,000. Ultimately, theft of this kind can lead to prison time as well as a hefty fine. It is also important to note that alongside the forgery charge, you could be facing charges for identity theft depending on the situation.
If you have been charged with check forgery in New York City, it is in your best interest to retain the legal services of a seasoned Rockland County check fraud attorney. In some cases, the charges may be a misunderstanding. Whatever the case may be, you can rely on our skilled team members to defend your rights and interests.
