Forgery

Forgery in Michigan carries many definitions, all of which can result in serious consequences under Michigan's penal code. Forgery can involve acts ranging from changing a public document to making unauthorized changes to a person's will.

In many instances, you may be surprised to learn the court charged you with a felony for what seems like a simple mistake or a minor offense. But the fact of the matter is that forgery is a felony level offense that may have serious consequences. A Michigan forgery lawyer could help you by working tirelessly to mitigate these consequences. Call an experienced fraud attorney today to schedule a consultation.

In short, forgery may be any creation or use of a false document with the intent to deceive or injure another party. However, Michigan law creates several criminal offenses of varying severity depending upon the type of forged document.

The most serious offense involves changing a public document. According to Michigan Compiled Law §750.248, it is a crime for any person to make, alter, or forge a public document with the intent to injure or defraud another party. Examples of public documents can include:

• Any document attested to by a notary public
• A will
• A promissory note
• An insurance policy

These actions are felony level crimes and may result in a maximum prison sentence of 14 years.

Just as serious are allegations that a person alters or forges a document related to the possession of real property. Under Michigan Compiled Law §750.248b, these actions may also be punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

Less serious are allegations that a person creates or possesses with the intent to pass off as genuine any document created by the state of Michigan. A prime example of this is the use of fake IDs. According to Michigan Compiled Law §750.252, this can result in a prison term of up to seven years.

It is important to note that any person facing a forgery charge may have a potential defense provided by law. Particularly when the state accuses a person of creating a forged document, it may be a defense to argue that the forgery was actually a scrivener's error. This simply means that the alleged forgery could have been a mistake or typo.

A Michigan forgery lawyer could help people determine whether this defense is appropriate to their case and present it in court. If it is not an appropriate defense, they can examine the facts of the case to find other potential defenses.

Whether the charges involve the creation of a forged document, using a forged document to deceive another person, or even possessing instruments designed to create a false document.

No matter the exact type of alleged forgery, these offenses are generally felonies and punishments may be as severe as 14 years in prison.

A Michigan forgery lawyer could help you navigate the court system and present a defense to a jury. From an initial arraignment to a final trial, every part of a court case is critical to protecting your freedom. Contact an attorney today to learn how they can help.