Fort Worth Forgery Lawyer
What is Forgery in Texas?
Forgery in Texas is the act of altering information with the intent of defrauding or harming another. This includes fraudulently making, completing, altering, or authenticating any writing. Forgery is codified under Texas Penal Code 32.21 and covers a wide range of fraudulent conduct. Examples of forgery can range from signing another person’s name on a check to altering an individual’s will without authorization to fabricating a vaccination card.
If you are facing allegations of forging documents, it’s important to contact a Fort Worth forgery lawyer who is skilled at handling these types of cases as soon a possible. Our team handles forgery offenses, as well as many other white collar crimes in North Texas.
What is the punishment in Texas for forgery?
In Texas, forgery can be punished as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the facts and circumstances of the case.
As A State Jail Felony:
Forgery is a State Jail Felony if the document is a:
- will or codicil
- deed or deed of trust
- mortgage
- security instrument
- security agreement
- credit card
- check
- debit form
- money order, contract or release of commercial instrument.
A state jail felony is punishable by 180 days to two years in a state jail facility.
As A Third Degree Felony:
Forgery is a third degree felony, punishable by two to 10 years in a state jail facility if it is:
- a government record
- currency
- ​issues of securities
- postage or revenue stamp
- a government stock or bond
Based On Value:
Forgeries can also be charged based on the value of the property using the standard theft value ladder found in the Texas Penal Code.
Of An Elderly Victim:
Forgery can also be enhanced one level of the victim is elderly. An elderly individual is one who is 65 years of age or older.
As A Class A Misdemeanor:
If it doesn’t fall under one of the categories above, forgery is a Class A misdemeanor in Texas punishable by up to a year in jail.
Federal Offense of Forgery
Federal forgery, often prosecuted under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 471, typically focuses on the forgery of government-issued documents such as currency, securities, and other instruments of the United States. It can also involve passports, immigration documents, and court documents. Federal forgery is generally considered more specific in terms of the types of documents and is treated as a felony with severe penalties, often involving larger scale fraud or counterfeit schemes affecting interstate or international commerce.
Differences Between Texas Penal Code 32.21 and Federal Forgery Offenses
- Scope of Documents: The Texas law covers a broader range of writings compared to federal law, which primarily targets specific documents like currency, securities, and official government documents.
- Jurisdiction and Impact: Federal forgery laws typically address offenses that have a broader impact on national security, federal government functions, or interstate commerce, while Texas law deals with a wide variety of forgery activities that might only affect individuals or businesses at a state or local level.
- Severity and Penalties: Federal penalties for forgery are generally harsher, reflecting the potential national and international implications of the crimes, as opposed to state penalties which may vary based on the document involved and the specific harm intended or caused.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Forgery in Texas?
There is a 10-year statute of limitations in Texas for forgery cases.
Contact a Skilled Fort Worth Forgery Attorney for Assistance
If you or a loved one is facing a forgery charge, it’s important to have an experienced Fort Worth forgery lawyer by your side. We can help. Contact us today at 817-203-2220 for a complimentary strategy session.
