Forgery / Fraudulent Schemes

criminal charge

White collar crimes have received a distinction for being less serious than other crimes. Many people believe that because white collar crimes are non-violent, the effects of them are never as serious as violent crimes. However, our judicial system does not see things the same way. Forgery is one to the most common white collar crimes, and in some cases, individuals convicted of forgery n individual can spend over four years in prison.

Tempe Forgery/Fraud Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with forgery in and around the cities of Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, East Valley, or Chandler, contact the Law Office of James E. Novak. As a former prosecutor, Novak is familiar with the tactics prosecutors will try to use against you and he will be prepared to defend you against them in a way that could help you avoid time behind bars.

Contact the Law Office of James E. Novak at (480) 413-1499 to set up a free consultation to discuss your forgery charges. James Novak will thoroughly analyze the aspects of your case, and collect evidence that can be used to build a strong defense.


Forgery/Fraudulent Schemes in Arizona

According to Arizona Revised Statute § 13-2002 an individual is guilty of forgery if he or she:

  • Creates or changes a written document with the intent to defraud someone
  • Carries a document or instrument that he or she knows has been forged
  • Presents a document or instrument that he or she knows has been falsified, in an attempt to defraud someone

As stated by Arizona Revised Statute § 13-2102, it is unlawful to:

  • Use a credit card without having the consent of the cardholder
  • Sell or transfer a credit card while intentionally trying to defraud someone
  • Obtain control or custody of a credit card for the purpose of committing fraudulent schemes

Penalties for Forgery in Arizona

Fraud involving the use of a credit card is usually considered a class 5 felony, and is punishable by 9 to 24 months in prison.

In most cases, forgery is categorized as a class four felony, which is punishable by between 18 months and three years in prison.

If the forged object is used to purchase, lease, or rent a “drop house” (dwelling used to smuggle human beings), it can be upgraded to a class three felony which carries a prison sentence of 30 months to seven years.


Law Office of James E. Novak, PLLC | Forgery Defense Lawyer in Tempe

If you have been charged with committing forgery or any other fraudulent scheme in and around Maricopa County, including the cities of Tempe, Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, or Mesa, contact the Law Office of James E. Novak. Novak is a qualified defense attorney who is dedicated to putting the needs of his clients first, and he will work hard to ensure he provides you with the strongest defense possible.

Call James Novak today at (480) 413-1499 to set up a consultation about your forgery or fraudulent scheme charges. Your initial consultation is free and the sooner you reach out to James Novak, the sooner he can begin preparing your defense.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation
(840) 413-1499