Scottsdale Forgery Lawyer

Forgery is more than just a signature on a slip of paper—it’s a serious felony under Arizona law that can result in years of prison time, steep fines, and a lifelong criminal record. Whether you’re accused of altering a contract, falsifying a check, or misusing identification, a conviction can damage your career, reputation, and freedom.

At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, Attorney Josh provides aggressive, strategic representation for those charged with forgery. As an experienced Scottsdale forgery lawyer, he takes a smart approach to every case—focused on results, clarity, and protecting your future. When the stakes are high, you need more than defense. You need Smart Defense. Strong Results.

Forgery is defined in A.R.S. §13-2002 as knowingly committing one or more of the following acts with intent to defraud:

• Falsifying, altering, or completing a written instrument (e.g., contract, check, ID)
• Knowingly possessing a forged document
• Offering or presenting a forged document as authentic

Forged items can include checks, leases, insurance forms, ID cards, wills, business documents, or any record used for personal or financial gain. The key legal element is intent: the state must prove you meant to deceive someone.

That’s where Attorney Josh comes in. As your Scottsdale forgery lawyer, he works to undermine the prosecution’s evidence and prevent that intent from being established in court.

Being charged with forgery is not the same as being guilty. There are multiple defenses that, when skillfully presented, can lead to reduced charges, dismissal, or an acquittal.

Here are some common defense strategies we use:

Lack of Intent to Defraud

If you didn’t act with the intent to deceive, you haven’t committed forgery under Arizona law. Maybe you misunderstood your authority, or signed something without realizing its implications. If the state can’t prove intent, the case falls apart.

Insufficient or Unreliable Evidence

Forgery charges must be supported by strong evidence that directly links you to the act. If the case hinges on circumstantial evidence or untrustworthy testimony, we challenge its validity and create reasonable doubt.

Coercion or Duress

If you were forced or threatened into committing forgery by someone else, you may not be legally liable. We can help demonstrate how coercion played a role and present evidence that supports your lack of free will in the incident.

Mistaken Identity

Forgery often involves identity issues. Whether it’s a signature mismatch or unclear surveillance footage, mistaken identity is a common factor in these cases. If there’s any ambiguity, we raise it in your defense.

Consent or Authorization

In many cases, the accused believed they had permission to sign or alter a document. If we can show that you acted under the direction or approval of another party, this may eliminate criminal intent altogether.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

If police obtained evidence through unlawful search, seizure, or interrogation, we can move to suppress it. In some cases, this can lead to dismissal if the prosecution’s case is built on tainted evidence.

Attorney Josh carefully examines every angle of your case and applies the strategy that offers the strongest path to success.

Forgery is typically charged as a Class 4 felony in Arizona, but penalties can increase depending on the circumstances and prior criminal history.

Standard Class 4 Felony Penalties:

• 2.5 years in prison (standard)
• Up to 3.75 years in prison (aggravated)
• Up to $150,000 in fines
• Probation and restitution
• Permanent felony record

In certain situations, forgery may be elevated to a Class 3 felony—especially if the act was connected to larger criminal schemes like mortgage fraud or identity theft. Class 3 felonies carry up to 8.75 years in prison.

Even lesser charges like possession of forgery devices or simulation offenses can still result in Class 5 or Class 6 felony penalties and damage your record for years to come.

If you’ve been accused, you need a Scottsdale forgery lawyer who can work quickly and effectively to protect your future.

When you’re facing a felony, you need more than just someone who knows the law—you need someone who knows how to win. Attorney Josh is trusted across Arizona for delivering real results through strategy, experience, and a relentless focus on the client’s best interest.

What sets Attorney Josh apart:

• Extensive experience defending forgery and white-collar cases
• A proven track record of dismissals, reductions, and acquittals
• Smart, tailored strategies for every unique case
• Transparent communication and full client support
• A courtroom reputation built on Smart Defense. Strong Results.

A forgery charge can turn your life upside down—but it doesn’t have to define your future. At The Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, LLC, we provide the smart, aggressive defense you need to fight back. Whether you’re under investigation or already charged, Attorney Josh will review your case, advise you on your best legal options, and take every step necessary to protect your name, rights, and freedom.

Schedule a free consultation today with a leading Scottsdale forgery lawyer. We’ll help you move forward—with Smart Defense. Strong Results.

If you have recently been accused of committing forgery and are unsure where to turn, contact our defense lawyers today. Our team has spent years defending Arizona residents against criminal charges and is prepared to advocate for you throughout every proceeding you experience. Don’t wait to ask how we can serve you today.