Forgery Charges in Skokie, Illinois

Forgery is a serious criminal offense in Illinois that can lead to severe legal consequences, including significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing forgery charges in Skokie, it is crucial to understand the nature of these charges, the potential penalties, and the importance of securing experienced legal representation to protect your rights and future.

What Constitutes Forgery?

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/17-3, forgery occurs when an individual knowingly and with the intent to defraud:

• Creates, alters, or completes a document: This includes making or altering any document, such as a check, contract, deed, will, or other financial instrument, in a way that falsely represents it as authentic or authorized.
• Issues or delivers a forged document: Passing off a forged document as genuine, such as cashing a forged check or presenting a fake ID.
• Possesses a forged document with intent to deliver: Holding a forged document with the intent to use, transfer, or deliver it for fraudulent purposes.
• Uses another’s signature: Signing another person’s name without their permission with the intent to defraud.

Forgery can involve various types of documents, including but not limited to legal contracts, financial instruments, identification cards, and government-issued documents.

Penalties for Forgery in Skokie

The penalties for forgery in Illinois are severe and depend on the type of document forged and the circumstances of the offense:

• Class 3 Felony: In most cases, forgery is charged as a Class 3 felony. Penalties include 2 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. This classification applies to forgery involving documents such as checks, wills, or deeds.
• Class 4 Felony: If the forgery involves a single forged check or document worth less than $150 and there are no prior forgery convictions, the offense may be charged as a Class 4 felony. Penalties include 1 to 3 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Federal Charges: In cases where forgery involves federal documents, such as passports, currency, or Social Security cards, the offense may be prosecuted under federal law, which can result in more severe penalties.
• Permanent criminal record: A conviction for forgery will result in a permanent criminal record, which can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, and maintain personal and professional relationships.

Defending Against Forgery Charges in Skokie

Given the serious consequences of a conviction, it is essential to mount a strong defense against charges of forgery. Some potential defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove that you knowingly committed the forgery with the intent to defraud. If there was no intent to deceive, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Mistake or misunderstanding: If the alleged forgery occurred due to a mistake or misunderstanding, rather than intentional fraud, this could serve as a defense.
• Consent or authorization: If the person whose signature or document was allegedly forged had given consent or authorization, this could be a valid defense.
• Violation of rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest, such as through unlawful search and seizure or improper handling of evidence, it may be possible to suppress key evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Skokie Defense Attorney for Forgery?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of Illinois law and a proven track record of defending clients against charges like forgery in Skokie and throughout Cook County. His background as a former prosecutor provides him with unique insights into the prosecution’s strategies, enabling him to build a strong and effective defense tailored to your case.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a free consultation today at (847) 350-1266 to discuss your case. With his dedication to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome, Andrew is the advocate you need in these challenging legal circumstances.