Misdemeanor forgery in Jefferson County, Colorado includes acts of making or using false documents with fraudulent intent. Ranging from forged credit card signatures to false insurance applications, misdemeanor forgery can result in some damaging ramifications. A common example of misdemeanor forgery in Colorado is the act of altering academic transcripts in some way. Any allegations of forgery are serious and should lead to contacting an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible.
Jefferson County Misdemeanor Forgery Laws
Jefferson County’s misdemeanor forgery laws prohibit the use, creation, or submission of certain fake documents. C.R.S. 18-5-104 and C.R.S. 18-5-104.5 describe these specific violations in Lakewood, Arvada, and Golden. Misdemeanor forgery acts as somewhat of a catchall for forged documents or instruments not listed in Colorado’s felony forgery law. It applies when someone knows the document / instrument is forged and intends to defraud another person or institution by using it. Fake transcripts used to apply for acceptance into colleges or for financial aid can lead to impactful criminal charges. Additionally, falsifying information on insurance applications is also unlawful. While times are indeed tough, altering documents for benefit can land anyone in jail, strapped with substantial fines.
Misdemeanor Forgery Penalties in Colorado
Second-degree forgery, use of a forged academic record, and criminal possession of a second-degree forged instrument are the three misdemeanor forgery crimes in Colorado. Conviction in Jefferson County can result in:
- 3 – 18 months in county jail,
- fines of up to $5,000
However, penalties amplify significantly when acts of forgery involve deeds, wills, stock, bonds, or government-issued documents. This conduct can lead to a class 5 felony, potentially resulting in up to 3 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and thousands of dollars in fines.
Jefferson County Forgery Attorney
Facing an allegation of forgery in Lakewood, Littleton, Arvada, or Golden shouldn’t be handled alone. Penalties are too steep, heightening the need for skilled representation from a strategic defense attorney. We have over 40 years of combined experience representation clients charged with complex felony and misdemeanor crimes. Our strategic approach provides a free initial consultation, same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans. Perhaps you didn’t have any intent to defraud anyone, the documents were authentic, or police misconduct applies. Nevertheless, contact our office to speak with a highly rated criminal lawyer today.
If you or someone you know is facing forgery charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the determined defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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