Media Falsification of Documents Lawyer
Defending You Against Forgery Charges in Southeastern Pennsylvania
Falsification of documents can involve making false statements on any documents with the intention to defraud another person or organization. It is a white collar crime that can be labeled in varying ways depending on the state where the crime has been committed. It can also be included in multiple charges pertaining to various types of fraud. It is generally charged as a felony.
If you or someone you know is being investigated or has already been charged with falsifying documents, it is vitally important that you retain the services of a reputable and proven white collar crime defense attorney. At The Law Offices of Arthur Thomas Donato Jr., you can bring your case to a highly-qualified defender with more than 40 years of invaluable experience obtained at both the state and federal level. Our firm’s approach is to be proactive from the start through intensive investigation and preparation for trial. We have built an outstanding record or success based on this approach and the diligence we apply to every case.
Accused of falsifying documents? Contact The Law Offices of Arthur Thomas Donato Jr. at (610) 565-4747 or via our online form to request a confidential case evaluation.
What Is Falsification of Documents?
Falsification of documents or records involves the alteration or modification of a document that is done for an illegal purpose. It can also include passing such documents on to other parties.
This offense is typically part of a bigger scheme designed to obtain some type of financial benefit or advantage through such crimes as fraud, such as bank fraud, mortgage fraud, or healthcare fraud, forgery, or tax evasion.
Documents that can be falsified include anything official from tax returns to university transcripts, loan applications, financial records, business records, deeds, promissory notes, contracts, checks, wills, and personal identification documents such as Social Security cards, drivers’ licenses, and more.
Activities that can involve falsifying documents can include but are not limited to:
- Providing inaccurate financial statements including profit and loss statements
- Submitting inaccurate tax forms
- Falsifying real estate documents
- Misrepresenting intellectual property rights
- Forging signatures on checks
- Deliberately omitting assets or property in a legal proceeding, such as a bankruptcy or divorce
- Using false documents for employment or immigration purposes
To be convicted of falsifying documents, it is generally required to prove intent as opposed to a careless mistake. When done as part of a large scheme to gain a financial advantage or involving multiple victims, you will likely face collateral white collar crime charges as well. Most fraud and forgery charges, for example, are also felonies. Felonies are punishable by more than year in prison along with hefty fines. Penalties can be more severe if you are charged and prosecuted at the federal level resulting in a federal conviction.
Falsification of Documents Penalty
In Pennsylvania, falsifying documents is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges and penalties. The severity of the penalties will depend on the type of document falsified, the intent of the offender, and the degree of harm caused by the falsification.
Under Pennsylvania law, the charges for falsification of documents can range from misdemeanors to felonies. Here are some examples of the penalties for different levels of forgery:
- An offense involving a will, contract, deed, or commercial instrument can result in a third-degree felony charge, which carries a maximum penalty of seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
- An offense involving postage, money, or security will result in a second-degree felony, with a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- All other instances of forgery will result in a first-degree misdemeanor charge, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
It's worth noting that in addition to criminal penalties, individuals who are found guilty of falsifying documents may also face civil penalties, such as fines or loss of professional licenses. Additionally, the person or organization harmed by the falsification may pursue legal action to recover damages.
If you are facing charges for falsification of documents in Pennsylvania, it's vital to seek the advice of a Media falsification of documents attorney who can help you understand your legal options and defend your rights.
Diligent & Capable Legal Representation
Our firm has a strong reputation for defending state and federal white collar crime charges of even the most complex nature. Attorney Arthur Thomas Donato is a proven trial attorney with more than 40 years of experience breaking down charges and analyzing each element to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This is followed by strategic arguments that capitalize on those deficiencies to protect your rights and future.
Want to learn more about how we can help? Call our Media, Pennsylvania falsification of documents attorney at (610) 565-4747 today.
