Forgery Defense Lawyer Onondaga County — What Are Your Legal Options?
A forgery charge in Onondaga County is a serious offense under New York Penal Law § 170.00, potentially a felony with prison time. As a Forgery Defense Lawyer Onondaga County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate, strategic defense for charges involving forged documents, checks, or signatures. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience in New York criminal courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Onondaga County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
New York Forgery Law & Penalties
Forgery in New York is defined in Penal Law Article 170. The crime involves falsely making, completing, or altering a written instrument with intent to defraud, deceive, or injure another. This includes forging signatures, checks, deeds, prescriptions, or other documents. The severity of the charge depends on the type of instrument forged. For example, forging a check or deed is often a felony, while forging a simpler document might be a misdemeanor. Prosecutors in Onondaga County take these charges seriously, as they involve dishonesty and potential financial harm.
If you need a forgery defense lawyer near me Onondaga County, understanding the specific statute is crucial. The official New York Penal Law can be reviewed on the New York State Senate website. For local court procedures, visit the Onondaga County Courts website.
- Secure immediate legal counsel before speaking to investigators.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all discovery, including the alleged forged instrument.
- We will challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent to defraud, a key element of the crime.
- Explore defense strategies such as lack of knowledge, authorization, or mistaken identity.
- Negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a vigorous trial defense.
In Onondaga County, forgery can be charged as a Class D felony (up to 7 years prison) for forging certain instruments like deeds or contracts, or as a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail) for others.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forgery 2nd Degree (e.g., deed, will) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, restitution |
| Forgery 3rd Degree (e.g., check, prescription) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | N/A | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Onondaga County Forgery Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a forgery charge can damage your reputation, employment prospects, and personal freedom. We approach each case with a focus on the specific details and evidence, building a defense case-specific to the circumstances. Our team is committed to providing clear communication and aggressive representation from the initial consultation through resolution.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific Onondaga County forgery results are part of confidential case files, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to favorable outcomes. SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas in multiple states. We actively practice in New York courts and apply our extensive criminal defense experience to forgery cases, aiming for dismissals, charge reductions, or acquittals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New York
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New York location serves clients in Onondaga County, including Syracuse, DeWitt, Cicero, Clay, Manlius, Camillus, Solvay, Liverpool, Baldwinsville, North Syracuse, Fayetteville, and Skaneateles. We are accessible to clients throughout Central New York.
Forgery Defense in Onondaga County: Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered forgery in New York?
Yes. Under NY Penal Law § 170.00, forgery is falsely making, completing, or altering a written instrument with intent to defraud, deceive, or injure another. This includes signing someone else’s name on a check, altering a contract, or creating a fake prescription.
Is forgery a felony in Onondaga County?
It depends on the forged instrument. Forgery in the Second Degree (like a deed or will) is a Class D felony. Forgery in the Third Degree (like a check) is a Class A misdemeanor. An experienced Forgery Defense Lawyer Onondaga County can analyze the specifics of your charge.
Can I go to jail for a first-time forgery offense?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor forgery charge carries a potential jail sentence of up to one year. Felony forgery carries prison time. However, a strong defense may seek an alternative resolution like an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) to avoid incarceration.
What are common defenses to a forgery charge?
Defenses include lack of intent to defraud, absence of knowledge that the instrument was forged, actual authorization to sign, and mistaken identity. An affordable forgery defense lawyer Onondaga County can investigate to find the best defense strategy for your situation.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of forgery?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Statements you make can be used against you, even if you believe you are explaining yourself.
If you are facing forgery charges in Syracuse or anywhere in Onondaga County, do not wait. Contact a dedicated Forgery Defense Lawyer Onondaga County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential case review. We are ready to defend you.
Related Practice Areas: For other legal needs in the area, see our Onondaga County Criminal Defense Lawyer and Fraud Defense Lawyer pages.
Also Serving: New York County (Manhattan), Nassau County.
Back to: New York Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.