Although violent crimes tend to garner the most attention, non-violent crimes are committed nearly as frequently, though more quietly. The fact that such crimes are not violent does not mean that they are any less severely punished, however.

Both forgery and counterfeiting crimes are established under Title XLVI Chapter 831 of Florida Statutes. According to section 831.01, any person who falsely alters, makes, counterfeits, or forges a certificate or any form of legal proof, public record, will, deed, charter, bond, testament, letter of attorney, bill of exchange or promissory note, policy of insurance, or an acquittance, order, or discharge for money or property, or other such documentation, with the intent to defraud another person, is guilty of a third-degree felony. If convicted, a forger or counterfeiter faces a maximum prison sentence of five years and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.

Most forgery and counterfeiting crimes are felonies, although some may be charged as misdemeanors. In most forgery and counterfeiting cases, the prosecution must prove that the suspect intended to defraud another of rights, property, and/or money.

If you have been accused of a forgery or counterfeiting crime in Florida, regardless of what type of offense, it is essential that you contact an experienced Florida forgery defense lawyer at Musca Law as soon as possible so that we may examine the details of your case and help you understand your legal rights and options. Call us today at (888) 484-5057 for a confidential consultation.