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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Forgery
Facing Forgery Charges in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Forgery is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, with the potential for significant legal consequences, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing forgery charges in Chicago, it’s essential to have an experienced and aggressive defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Forgery in Illinois
Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/17-3, forgery occurs when an individual knowingly creates, alters, or uses a document with the intent to defraud another person or entity. Forgery can take many forms, including:
Creating a False Document: Making a fake document, such as a counterfeit check, deed, or contract, with the intent to deceive others.
Altering a Document: Changing a legitimate document in a significant way, such as modifying the amount on a check, altering a will, or changing the terms of a contract.
Using a Forged Document: Presenting a forged or altered document as genuine to deceive another person or entity, such as cashing a fake check or using a forged identification card.
Forging a Signature: Signing someone else’s name on a document without their consent, such as on a check, legal document, or contract.
Illinois law takes forgery very seriously because it undermines trust in documents that are essential for personal, business, and governmental functions.
Penalties for Forgery in Chicago
The penalties for forgery in Illinois vary depending on the circumstances of the offense, but they are always severe:
Class 3 Felony: Most forgery offenses in Illinois are classified as a Class 3 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 2 to 5 years and fines of up to $25,000.
Class 4 Felony: In some cases, forgery may be charged as a Class 4 felony, particularly if the forged document involves a smaller financial value or lesser impact. A Class 4 felony carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 3 years.
Restitution: In addition to imprisonment and fines, the court may order you to pay restitution to the victim to cover any financial losses they incurred due to the forgery.
Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for forgery will result in a permanent criminal record, which can severely impact your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities in the future.
Given these penalties, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your future.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?
Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling complex fraud and forgery cases. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.
When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s thorough understanding of Illinois forgery laws ensures that your case is handled with the utmost competence and care.
Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.
Defending Against Forgery Charges in Chicago
Successfully defending against forgery charges requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing every piece of evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:
Lack of Intent: Forgery charges require proof that you knowingly and intentionally committed the act with the intent to defraud. If there is doubt about your intent or if the forgery was accidental, this could be a significant defense.
Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person responsible for the forgery, Andrew will work to uncover evidence that points to your innocence.
Insufficient Evidence: Andrew will challenge the strength of the evidence against you, seeking to have charges reduced or dismissed if the prosecution cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Consent: In some cases, the alleged forgery may have been done with the consent of the person whose name or information was used. Andrew will work to establish that no crime occurred if consent was given.
Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation—such as through unlawful search, seizure, or coercion—Andrew may be able to have key evidence suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.
Andrew will work tirelessly to build a strong defense, aiming to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea, or secure an acquittal.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
If you have been charged with forgery, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense
Facing charges of forgery can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you have been arrested or charged with forgery in Chicago, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.
Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.
Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.
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