Frankfort Forgery Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Against Forgery Charges in Illinois 

Forgery allegations can cast a long and damaging shadow over one's life, tarnishing reputations and jeopardizing future opportunities. At PGO Law Firm, we recognize the gravity of forgery charges and are committed to providing relentless legal representation for individuals facing such accusations. If you find yourself in the midst of a forgery case in Illinois, our experienced team of attorneys is here to stand by your side, navigating the complexities of the legal system to safeguard your rights and advocate for your best interests.

Call PGO Law Firm today at (630) 448-8878 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our forgery attorney in Frankfort!

What is Forgery?  

Forgery is a severe criminal offense that involves the creation, alteration, or use of false documents with the intent to deceive or defraud. In the digital age, forgery has evolved beyond traditional methods, encompassing electronic signatures, digital documents, and online transactions. Common examples of forgery include:

• The falsification of signatures on checks
• The creation of counterfeit identification documents
• The unauthorized alteration of contracts or wills

Our team at PGO Law Firm understands the nuances of forgery cases and is well-versed in the evolving landscape of traditional and digital forgery. We recognize that each case is unique and demands a tailored approach. Whether you are facing charges related to paper documents or electronic transactions, our seasoned attorneys possess the expertise to construct a robust defense strategy.

What are the Penalties for Forgery in Illinois?

Illinois's penalties for forgery can be severe and vary depending on the case's specific circumstances. The severity of the offense is often categorized based on the value of the property or services involved. For instance, forging documents with less than $300 is generally considered a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines. However, if the value exceeds $300 or the offense involves certain documents, such as checks or wills, it may be classified as a felony, leading to more substantial penalties, including imprisonment for several years.

In addition to criminal penalties, forgery convictions can have long-lasting consequences, affecting employment opportunities, professional licenses, and personal relationships. At PGO Law Firm, our attorneys possess the legal acumen to navigate the intricacies of forgery cases, strategically challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors to secure the most favorable outcome for our clients.

Defenses Against Forgery Charges

Mounting a solid defense against forgery requires a comprehensive understanding of each case's legal intricacies and unique details. Our team at PGO Law Firm employs a strategic and tailored approach to craft defenses that challenge the prosecution's case. Some common defenses against forgery charges include:

• Lack of Intent: For a forgery conviction, the prosecution must prove that the accused intended to defraud or deceive. Challenging this intent is an essential defense strategy.
• Authentication Issues: Another effective defense is casting doubt on the authenticity of the alleged forged documents or signatures. This may involve questioning the chain of custody or the reliability of expert witnesses.
• Duress or Coercion: It may serve as a valid defense if the accused can demonstrate that they were forced or coerced into committing forgery. Establishing duress requires a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may be wrongly accused due to mistaken identity. Our attorneys diligently investigate the facts to uncover discrepancies that may exonerate our clients.

At PGO Law Firm, we leverage our extensive legal knowledge and courtroom experience to build strong defenses tailored to the unique aspects of each forgery case. Our goal is to protect our clients from the severe consequences of forgery charges and guide them through the legal process with skill and determination.