Dallas Forgery Defense Lawyers

At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we provide assertive and knowledgeable representation for individuals facing forgery charges. Our experienced Dallas forgery defense lawyers are well-acquainted with these charges' complexities and are dedicated to protecting your legal rights. 

With a comprehensive understanding of state and federal laws and a commitment to personalized client service, our firm is prepared to offer stalwart legal representation and valuable guidance throughout the legal process. 

Call the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC at (214) 238-9392 to schedule a consultation today.

What Is Forgery?

Forgery involves the creation, alteration, or use of a false document with the intent to defraud or deceive. It’s considered a serious offense under Texas law and is often classified as a felony, depending on the circumstances. 

Commonly forged documents include: 

• Checks
• Contracts
• Identification cards 
• Legal certificates

The crime’s severity depends on various factors, including the type of document forged and the alleged intent behind the forgery. 

Common Examples of Forgery

Forgery encompasses a broad spectrum of fraudulent activities predicated on the replication, alteration, or fabrication of documents or items. 

One prevalent instance is check forgery, involving the creation or modification of a check to obtain or withhold money deceitfully. This can range from forging a payor’s signature, altering a payee’s name, or changing the amount on a check.

Identity documents, such as driver’s licenses or passports, are also commonly forged. These forged documents are typically used for illegal entry, fraudulently obtaining services, or evading law enforcement.

Contract forgery, another common occurrence, involves the creation or alteration of contractual agreements with the intent to deceive another party or gain an unjust advantage. 

The creation of counterfeit currency or financial instruments is considered a severe form of forgery, given the potential to destabilize economic systems. 

At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we have a comprehensive understanding of these various forms of forgery and their legal repercussions under Texas law. If you have questions about the nature of the charges against you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys at your earliest convenience.

What Is the Punishment for Forgery in Texas?

The punishment for forgery in Texas varies significantly, hinging upon the nature of the forged document in question and the intent behind the act. 

Typically, forgery is charged as a state jail felony, with potential penalties of 6 months to 2 years in state jail and a fine not exceeding $10,000. 

The severity of the charge can escalate under certain circumstances. For instance, if the document forged is a will, deed, mortgage, or security instrument or agreement, the crime can be elevated to a third-degree felony. This offense can result in a prison term ranging from 2 to 10 years and a possible fine of up to $10,000. 

If the forged document involves money, securities, postage or revenue stamps, or a government record, the charge can become a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. 

On the other hand, there are some situations in which a more lenient sentence could be handed down. For example, if the forgery involved a commercial instrument or a credit card, the offense could be considered a Class A misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 1 year in jail, a fine not exceeding $4,000, or both. 

It is crucial to remember that these penalties are contingent upon the court’s discretion, considering the specifics of your case and criminal history. The Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC is prepared to guide you through the legal process, providing informed counsel on the varied aspects of forgery charges in Texas.

Defenses to Forgery Charges in Texas

Depending on the specifics, a variety of defense strategies may be harnessed in forgery cases. 

One common approach is to challenge intent. Texas law requires that the act be carried out with the intention to defraud or harm. If we can prove that your case did not involve intent, the prosecution’s case against you could be considerably weakened. 

Another potential defense revolves around the concept of consent. If we can demonstrate that you had permission to use or alter the document(s) in question, we may be able to refute the charges against you. 

The validity of the alleged forged instrument is also subject to scrutiny. If the document in question does not have legal significance or carry any pecuniary value, it may not meet the legal definition of a forged document under Texas law.

The Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC brings to bear a deep understanding of these and other potential defenses. Our team works diligently to help individuals understand the complexities of forgery law, offering valuable advice at every opportunity.

Schedule a Consultation with a Texas Forgery Defense Attorney at the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC Today

When confronting forgery charges, having seasoned legal counsel by your side is crucial. Our lawyers at the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC can provide aggressive legal representation and valuable insight regarding your case. 

You are not alone in this fight. Call (214) 238-9392 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.