Federal Forgery Crimes

Forgery: How Josh Tomsheck of Hofland & Tomsheck Can Defend You Against Federal Forgery Charges

Forgery is the act of creating, altering, or using false documents or signatures with the intent to defraud. Federal forgery charges are often prosecuted in cases involving forged government documents, financial instruments, or the falsification of records used in interstate commerce. Convictions for federal forgery can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences, significant fines, and restitution.

If you or someone you know is facing federal forgery charges, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney who understands federal forgery laws and can craft an effective defense strategy. Josh Tomsheck, a nationally board-certified criminal defense attorney with Hofland & Tomsheck, has successfully defended clients against federal forgery charges. His knowledge of the law and his aggressive defense strategies make him a trusted advocate in these cases.

Understanding Federal Forgery Laws

Federal forgery is prosecuted under several statutes, depending on the nature of the forged document or signature. Common federal forgery cases involve forged government documents, checks, and other financial instruments.

• Forgery of Government Documents (18 U.S.C. § 495): This statute makes it a federal crime to forge or counterfeit public records, legal certificates, contracts, or other official documents issued by the U.S. government.
• Forgery of Financial Instruments (18 U.S.C. § 471): Forging U.S. currency, bonds, or other financial instruments is a federal offense. The penalties for forging currency are particularly harsh, as they often involve long prison sentences and significant fines.
• Mail and Wire Fraud in Forgery Cases (18 U.S.C. §§ 1341, 1343): When forged documents or instruments are used in schemes to defraud through the mail or electronic communications, defendants may also face mail or wire fraud charges. These charges can add substantial prison time and fines to the penalties for forgery.

Penalties for Federal Forgery Convictions

Federal forgery convictions can carry severe penalties, depending on the type of document forged, the amount of money involved, and whether the defendant has prior convictions.

• Imprisonment: Convictions for federal forgery offenses can result in prison sentences ranging from 5 to 20 years, especially in cases involving forged government documents or largescale financial fraud.
• Fines: Federal forgery convictions can result in significant fines, with penalties often reaching into the hundreds of thousands of dollars in cases involving forged financial instruments.
• Restitution: Defendants convicted of forgery are often required to pay restitution to the victims to compensate for the financial losses resulting from the forgery.

Common Defenses in Federal Forgery Cases

When defending against federal forgery charges, Josh Tomsheck uses a variety of defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case. Some common defenses include:

• Lack of Intent to Defraud: One of the key elements of forgery is the intent to defraud. If the defendant did not intend to deceive or cause harm, Josh Tomsheck may argue that there is insufficient evidence to prove the required criminal intent.
• Challenging the Evidence: Forgery cases often rely on physical evidence, such as the forged documents, and testimony from witnesses. Josh Tomsheck will thoroughly review the evidence to determine if it was lawfully obtained and whether it supports the charges. He may file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge the credibility of witnesses.
• Lack of Knowledge: In some cases, individuals may unknowingly use forged documents or signatures without realizing they are fraudulent. Josh Tomsheck can argue that the defendant lacked the necessary knowledge or intent to be held criminally liable.
• Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces an individual to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. If undercover agents or informants played a role in setting up the forgery scheme, Josh Tomsheck may argue that the defendant was entrapped.

How Josh Tomsheck Can Help You in Federal Forgery Cases

Federal forgery cases require an attorney with a deep understanding of both criminal law and the intricacies of fraud and forgery offenses. Josh Tomsheck is an experienced, nationally Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer who has successfully defended clients against a wide range of federal forgery charges.

Here’s why Josh Tomsheck is the best choice for your defense:

• Expertise in Federal Forgery Law: Tomsheck’s knowledge of 18 U.S.C. § 471 and § 495 and other federal statutes governing forgery allows him to develop strong defense strategies tailored to the specific facts of each case.
• Proven Track Record in Federal Court: Josh Tomsheck has extensive experience defending clients in federal court, and he knows how to navigate the complexities of forgery cases. Whether it’s seeking a dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable plea deal, he works tirelessly to achieve the best results for his clients.
• Personalized Defense Strategy: Every case is different, and Josh Tomsheck takes the time to understand the specific facts and circumstances of each client’s case. He develops a personalized defense strategy aimed at minimizing penalties and protecting your rights.
• Aggressive Defense: Known for his dedication and tenacity, Josh Tomsheck will fight for you at every stage of the case, from pretrial motions to trial and sentencing. He is committed to securing the best possible outcome for his clients.

Contact Josh Tomsheck for a Consultation

If you or a loved one is facing federal forgery charges, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact Josh Tomsheck at the Law Firm of Hofland & Tomsheck today for a consultation. With his experience, knowledge, and commitment to his clients, you can trust that your case is in capable hands.