Aggressively Defending Against Forgery Charges

Forgery is the crime of knowingly creating or using a document — a check, for example — with intent to defraud. In Illinois, as in other states, a person does not necessarily have to succeed at defrauding or deceiving someone in order to be convicted of forgery; simply delivering a deceptive document can be grounds for a conviction.

Anyone facing a forgery charge should immediately seek legal representation from a criminal defense lawyer with experience in these kinds of cases. At The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, we provide aggressive criminal defense against forgery charges. Contact our office in Edwardsville for a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

Forgery Is A Defensible Charge

While the penalties for a forgery conviction are very serious, including possible prison time, restitution and a permanent criminal record, there are effective defense strategies.

For example, the prosecution must prove that you had the intention of defrauding someone else. Intention is a kind of mental state, and proving intention is a significant burden for the prosecution. It is important, however, for you not to speak with police or try to explain anything to law enforcement; this kind of engagement with police could lead to statements that hurt your case. Instead, contact our office as soon as possible after an arrest.

In cases involving allegations of creating or altering false documents, the prosecution may call on experts in handwriting analysis. This is also an area that can be challenged with an effective defense strategy. Handwriting analysis may be scientific, but experts are like everyone else: they make mistakes.

There have also been cases involving individuals who were forced or otherwise compelled by someone else to falsify a document or use a false document in a transaction. Depending on the facts of the case, compulsion and duress may be factors that could lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges.

An Experienced Defense Attorney On Your Side

Attorney Jessica Koester has achieved successful outcomes for clients facing a wide variety of criminal charges. Whether you are facing a state or federal charge, call our office in Edwardsville at 618-307-4192. You can also use our confidential online form to schedule a free initial consultation.