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Under Illinois law, forgery is the false making, or the material altering, of a document with the intent to defraud. A simple example of forgery is the signature of a person that is made without the person’s consent and without the person otherwise authorizing it.

Does anything else constitute forgery?

Yes, under Illinois law, if you do any of the following with the intent to defraud, you can be charged with forgery:

• issue or deliver a document knowing it has been altered
• possess a document, with the intent to deliver, that you know has been altered
• unlawfully use a digital signature
• unlawfully use a signature device to create the electronic signature of another person

What are some defenses to forgery?

The most common defense is ignorance, that you lacked the knowledge to know that the document was altered. Still, depending on the circumstances of your case and the evidence against you and how the evidence was obtained, you may have a different defense. It is extremely important that you work with an experienced Illinois forgery defense attorney who has seen cases like yours before.

What is the punishment for forgery?

Forgery is a serious crime. In Illinois, forgery is a Class 3 felony which carries a potential sentence of 3 to 7 years in prison and large fines. Depending on the circumstances, probation may be available. You will also have a record that will be viewable by future employers.

What should I look for in a forgery defense attorney?

You want someone who, among other things, focuses on forgery defense in his practice, has successfully handled numerous cases like yours, knows and has worked successfully with the judges and prosecutors assigned to your case and fights hard for you.

What Now?

If you are suspected of forgery, the number one thing you can do is stop talking. You don’t have to answer any questions and you shouldn’t. The best thing to do is get an experienced Illinois forgery defense lawyer to work on your behalf. If you would like our help in finding this type of attorney or if you simply have questions, please contact us at any time.