Forgery Defense Lawyer in Erie County, NY — What Are Your Options?
Forgery is a serious crime in New York, prosecuted under Penal Law Article 170. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing forgery charges in Erie County, you need a dedicated forgery defense lawyer Erie County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Forgery Laws and Penalties
Forgery in New York is defined in Penal Law § 170.00 et seq. It involves falsely making, completing, or altering a written instrument with the intent to defraud, deceive, or injure another. This includes documents like checks, deeds, contracts, prescriptions, and identification cards.
Last verified: April 2026 | Erie County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
The severity of the charge depends on the type of document forged. Forging a public record, will, or deed is a more serious felony than forging a private check. Penalties range from a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail) to a Class D felony (up to 7 years in prison). The specific statute and potential consequences must be reviewed by a skilled forgery defense lawyer Erie County.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s forgery laws, you can review Penal Law Article 170 on the New York State Senate website. For Erie County court procedures and information, visit the Erie County Courts website.
Handling a Forgery Case in Erie County
Forgery cases in Erie County typically begin with an investigation, often by local police or the District Attorney’s office. The case will be heard in Erie County Criminal Court for misdemeanors or Erie County Supreme Court for felonies. New York’s 2020 bail reform means most non-violent forgery defendants are released on their own recognizance pending trial.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Contact a forgery defense lawyer as soon as you are aware of an investigation or charges. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney.
- Case Review and Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all discovery from the prosecution, review the evidence, and investigate the circumstances of the alleged forgery.
- Defense Strategy Development: Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, authorization, or challenging the authenticity of the evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the District Attorney for a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea cannot be reached, they will be prepared to defend you at trial.
- Post-Disposition Matters: If convicted, your attorney can advocate for minimal sentencing. For eligible convictions, they can later assist with record sealing under CPL § 160.59.
Potential Penalties for Forgery in New York
In Erie County, forgery penalties vary widely based on the degree of the crime, ranging from up to one year in jail for a misdemeanor to several years in state prison for a felony.
| Offense (NY Penal Law) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forgery in the Third Degree (§ 170.05) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment |
| Forgery in the Second Degree (§ 170.10) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Felony record, loss of professional licenses |
| Forgery in the First Degree (§ 170.15) | Class C Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $15,000 | Lengthy prison term, significant fines |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Forgery Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally oversees complex criminal defense strategies.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local case counts are not published, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our capability. SRIS actively practices in Erie County — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We work to achieve dismissals, charge reductions, and alternative resolutions like Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) where possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Legal Support in Erie County
Our New York location serves clients throughout Erie County and Western New York. We are accessible from major highways like I-90 and I-81. If you are searching for a forgery defense lawyer near me Erie County, we are here to help.
Service Area: Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Amherst, Tonawanda, Hamburg, Orchard Park, Clarence, Lancaster, West Seneca, Lackawanna, East Aurora, Kenmore, Williamsville, Depew.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Forgery Defense FAQs for Erie County
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. This includes checks, contracts, IDs, and prescriptions.
Is forgery a felony in NY?
It depends. Forgery in the Third Degree is a Class A misdemeanor. Forgery in the Second and First Degrees are felonies (Class D and Class C), carrying potential state prison sentences.
Can forgery charges be dropped?
Yes. Charges may be dropped if the defense successfully challenges the evidence, proves lack of intent, or demonstrates authorization. An affordable forgery defense lawyer Erie County can negotiate for dismissals or favorable plea deals.
What are the defenses to a forgery charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, absence of knowledge that the document was forged, duress, or that you had authority to sign the document.
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 forgery defense lawyer Erie County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.