What should I do if I am being investigated for forgery?

Remain calm and do not speak with law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything said during questioning can be used against you. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately so they can intervene early, protect your rights, and prevent the case from escalating unnecessarily.

Can forgery charges be dismissed or reduced?

Yes. Forgery charges can sometimes be dismissed if the prosecution cannot prove intent or if the evidence was collected illegally. Charges may also be reduced through strategic negotiations, especially for first time offenders or cases involving low value documents. A defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the case and push for the best possible resolution.

What if I did not know the document was forged?

Lack of knowledge is a valid defense. The prosecution must prove that you knowingly used or created a forged document. If you reasonably believed the document was legitimate, your attorney can argue that the required mental state for the crime is missing.

Will a forgery conviction affect my career?

Yes. Forgery is considered a crime of dishonesty, which can severely impact employment opportunities, professional licenses, and background checks. This is why fighting the charges early and aggressively is essential. A strong defense can help you avoid a conviction that may follow you for years.

Philadelphia Forgery Lawyer

Why hire van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to handle your case?

Over 50 Years of Experience
Over 100 Million Dollars Recovered
Injury Cases: No Fees Unless We Win
Award-Winning Attorneys
Proven Litigators
Excellent Reviews & Reputation

Find Out What Your Case Is Worth

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Forgery Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA Countering Fraudulent Document Charges Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

Facing Criminal Charges in Philadelphia? Watch Our Video to See How We Can Help You.

Forgery is a serious crime with substantial penalties. Defending the crime of fraud should be taken seriously. If you have been accused of forgery, hire a skilled Philadelphia forgery attorney to defend you. You will be facing a determined District Attorney who wants to prove your guilt. Let us find proof to defend your innocence. The attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim have substantial experience defending white collar crimes.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 486-0123 or contact us online to learn more.

Free Case Evaluation

Available 24/7

215-486-0123

Se Hablamos Espanol

Elements of the Offense of Forgery

Under Pennsylvania law, forgery is when a person has the intent to defraud or harm another person and performs any of the following:

Alters the writing of another without that person’s consent
Executes or transfers any writing while claiming it to be the act of another who did not provide permission to perform the act
Knowingly offers a forged document as authentic, for payment or trade

Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today!

"Greatest firm I’ve ever dealt with. I’ll inform all my friends. Was very informative throughout the case!"

— Darren Baugh, Former Client

Examples of forgery include:

Altering a financial document
Falsifying another person’s signature on a check
Changing the amount on a check without authorization
Cashing a forged check at a financial institution
Utilizing a forged document to acquire or transfer money or property
Making a false real estate document like a deed

The offender does not need to deceive or defraud another in order to be guilty of forgery. The crime requires only the intent to commit the act.

Acquittal
Criminal Defense
Not Guilty
Criminal Defense
Not Guilty
Criminal Defense
Not Guilty
Criminal Defense
Charges Dropped
Criminal Defense
Pardon Granted
Criminal Defense
Not Guilty
Criminal Defense
Not Guilty
Criminal Defense
Not Guilty
Criminal Defense

View All Case Results

Degrees of Forgery

The crime of forgery is classified as both a misdemeanor and felony, depending on the instrument or kind of document included.
Felony of the second degree involves any forged items such as postage, money, or security and is punishable by no more than ten years in prison and/or a $25,000 maximum fine.
When the writing being forged is a will, contract, commercial instrument, or deed it is a felony of the third degree and is subject to a maximum prison term of seven years in prison and/or a fine up to $15,000. A check is an example of a commercial instrument.
A misdemeanor of the first degree applies to all other types of forgery and faces a punishment of up to five years in prison and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Call 215-486-0123 or Fill Out Our Online Contact Form

Available 24/7

215-486-0123

Se Hablamos Espanol

Defenses to Forgery

The accused did not intend to mislead or injure another.
The accused did not possess any knowledge that a document was forged.

Frequently Asked Questions About Forgery Charges in Philadelphia

Notable Case Results

Always Pursuing the Best Possible Outcome

$1 Million

Assault Injury

$10 Million

Tractor-Trailer Accident

See More Results

In the Media

Throughout the years, our firm and our individual attorneys have been recognized in both local and national media for our extensive legal knowledge, experience, and record of success. Our attorneys frequently appear in the media to provide insights and information on various legal matters, including high-profile cases.

See Us in the News

Pillar of Strength for Our Clients

Unrivaled Record of SuccessWe have won tens of millions of dollars for injured victims, and have achieved countless "not guilty" verdicts for clients faced with criminal charges.
No Challenge Too BigOur firm has handled some of the biggest cases in the country, including representing the President of the United States.
Personalized RepresentationWe understand that every case is unique. Therefore, we tailor our approach based on the facts of the case and the needs of our clients.
Uncompromising PassionOur competitive nature is one of our strongest qualities. You can be confident that no other firm will outwork our team.
Holistic ApproachNot only do we want to excel legally for the client, but we also want to make sure we are strengthening their mind, body and spirit.
Supporting the CommunityOur team engages in many community events and regularly donates time and resources to many charitable organizations in Philadelphia.

Talk to Our Experienced Team

Home to Philadelphia’s most accomplished attorneys, van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim pairs diverse practice experience with a passion-driven, comprehensive law practice—all for the client’s benefit.