Scottsdale Forgery Lawyer
Forgery charges involve creating, altering, or using false documents with intent to defraud. Under ARS § 13-2002, forgery is always a Class 4 Felony—there is no misdemeanor forgery in Arizona. Because forgery is classified as a “crime of dishonesty,” a conviction creates lasting consequences for employment, professional licensing, and immigration status far beyond any prison sentence.
Attorney Josh Lopez represents clients throughout Scottsdale facing forgery allegations, from check forgery to document alteration to possession of forged instruments.
→ For comprehensive Arizona forgery law information, see: Phoenix Forgery Lawyer
Forgery Under Arizona Law (ARS § 13-2002)
A person commits forgery if, with intent to defraud, they:
- Falsely make, complete, or alter a written instrument
- Knowingly possess a forged instrument
- Offer or present a forged instrument (use it)
Classification and Penalties
Forgery is a Class 4 Felony:
| Sentence (First Offense) | Range |
| Mitigated | 1.5 years |
| Presumptive | 2.5 years |
| Aggravated | 3.75 years |
| Probation | Eligible |
Prior felonies significantly increase sentencing ranges.
Written Instruments Covered
Arizona’s forgery statute covers a broad range of documents:
- Financial instruments: Checks, money orders, promissory notes
- Identification: Driver’s licenses, passports, ID cards
- Legal documents: Contracts, deeds, powers of attorney
- Government documents: Permits, licenses, certificates
- Commercial documents: Receipts, invoices, purchase orders
- Prescriptions: Medical prescriptions for controlled substances
Common Forgery Scenarios in Scottsdale
Check Forgery
The most common forgery cases involve:
- Signing someone else’s name on checks
- Altering amounts on checks
- Creating counterfeit checks
- Cashing checks made out to others
Identity Document Forgery
Creating or using fake identification:
- Fake driver’s licenses (often underage individuals)
- Altered identification cards
- Fraudulent government documents
Business Document Forgery
Scottsdale’s business community generates forgery allegations involving:
- Contracts with forged signatures
- Altered business agreements
- Fraudulent invoices or receipts
Real Estate Document Forgery
Scottsdale’s active real estate market creates allegations involving:
- Forged signatures on deeds
- Altered closing documents
- Fraudulent notarizations
Prescription Forgery
Creating, altering, or using fake prescriptions to obtain controlled substances—often charged alongside drug offenses.
Related Offenses
Possession of Forgery Device (ARS § 13-2003)
Possessing tools designed for forgery (check-printing equipment, ID-making materials) is a Class 6 Felony.
→ See: Phoenix Possession of Forgery Device Lawyer
Criminal Simulation (ARS § 13-2004)
Making objects appear to have value they don’t possess (fake art, counterfeit items) is a Class 6 Felony.
Fraudulent Schemes (ARS § 13-2310)
When forgery is part of a larger fraud scheme, both charges may apply.
→ See: Scottsdale Fraud Lawyer
Defense Strategies
Lack of Intent to Defraud
Forgery requires intent to defraud:
- The document wasn’t intended to deceive
- Created for personal/non-fraudulent purpose
- Obviously fake, not meant to deceive
Authorization
If you had permission to sign on someone’s behalf:
- Power of attorney
- Employment authority
- Explicit consent
Authorized signing is not forgery.
Lack of Knowledge
For possession charges:
- You didn’t know the document was forged
- Believed it was authentic
- Had no reason to suspect forgery
Document Doesn’t Qualify
Not all documents are “written instruments” under Arizona law.
Collateral Consequences
Crime of Dishonesty
Forgery severely impacts:
- Employment: Disqualification from positions involving documents, trust, or financial responsibility
- Professional licensing: Denial or revocation in most regulated professions
- Immigration: Deportation, inadmissibility, denial of naturalization
Felony Record
Forgery conviction results in:
- Loss of voting rights (until restored)
- Loss of firearm rights
- Enhanced penalties for future offenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Is forgery always a felony in Arizona?
Yes. Under ARS § 13-2002, forgery is a Class 4 Felony. There is no misdemeanor forgery in Arizona.
What if I signed someone’s name with their permission?
Authorized signing is not forgery. If you had permission to sign—through power of attorney, employment authority, or explicit consent—this is a defense.
Can forgery charges be dismissed?
Yes. If the prosecution cannot prove intent to defraud, authorization existed, or the document doesn’t qualify as a written instrument, charges may be dismissed.
What is the difference between forgery and fraud?
Forgery specifically involves false documents. Fraud is broader, covering any deceptive scheme for financial gain. Many cases involve both.
How does a forgery conviction affect my career?
Severely. Forgery is a felony “crime of dishonesty” that disqualifies you from most positions involving trust, documents, or financial responsibility. Professional licenses are typically denied or revoked.
Can I possess a forged document without knowing it?
Yes, and lack of knowledge is a defense. The prosecution must prove you knew the document was forged.
Contact a Scottsdale Forgery Defense Attorney
Forgery charges carry felony penalties and permanent consequences as a “crime of dishonesty.” An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence, challenge intent, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Attorney Josh Lopez defends forgery charges throughout Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Office:
6991 East Camelback Rd, Suite D-300
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Call (480) 386-1824 or complete the contact form to schedule your free consultation.