Forgery Defense Lawyer in Washington County, NY — What Are Your Options?
Forgery in Washington County is a serious offense under New York Penal Law § 170.00, ranging from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony. A conviction can mean jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for forgery charges in Washington County courts.
What Is Forgery Under New York Law?
Forgery is defined in New York Penal Law Article 170. The law makes it a crime to falsely make, complete, or alter a written instrument with intent to defraud, deceive, or injure another. A “written instrument” includes documents like checks, deeds, contracts, prescriptions, and identification cards.
Last verified: April 2026 | Washington County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Forgery charges often involve related offenses like criminal possession of a forged instrument or offering a false instrument for filing. The severity depends on the type of document forged and its intended use. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, understands how these cases are built from the start.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the forgery statute, see New York Penal Law § 170.00 (official NY Senate site). For court procedures and forms, visit the Washington County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Forgery Case in Washington County
In Washington County, forgery cases are typically heard in the Washington County Criminal Court for misdemeanors or the Washington County Supreme Court Criminal Term for felonies. Prosecutors must prove you acted with intent to defraud. Common defenses challenge the intent element, question the authenticity of the document, or argue a lack of knowledge that the instrument was forged.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Call a lawyer immediately.
- Case Assessment: Your attorney will review the charges, evidence, and police reports to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Investigation: Your defense team may conduct its own investigation, interview witnesses, or consult handwriting experts.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea isn’t possible, they will prepare a strong defense for trial.
- Post-Disposition: If convicted, your attorney can advocate for minimal sentencing or explore record sealing options under CPL § 160.59 after the waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Forgery in New York
In Washington County, forgery penalties vary based on the degree of the charge, with potential consequences including jail, prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forgery 3rd Degree | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year jail | Up to $1,000 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Forgery 2nd Degree | Class D Felony | 1 to 7 years prison | Up to $5,000 | None | Felony record, loss of professional licenses, firearm rights |
| Forgery 1st Degree | Class C Felony | 3.5 to 15 years prison | Up to $15,000 | None | Severe felony record, significant long-term collateral damage |
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 team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a forgery charge can upend your life, affecting your job, reputation, and future. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights and seeking the best possible resolution, whether through dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results in Washington County for forgery are not separately reported, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to client defense. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We apply this extensive experience to every forgery case we take in Washington County.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Forgery Defense Lawyer Near Me Washington County
Our New York location serves clients facing charges in Washington County courts, including those in Fort Edward, Hudson Falls, and Greenwich. We are accessible via I-87 and I-90. If you need an affordable forgery defense lawyer Washington County, contact us for a consultation.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between forgery and criminal possession of a forged instrument?
Yes, there is a difference. Forgery (Penal Law § 170.00) is the act of falsely making or altering a document. Criminal possession of a forged instrument (§ 170.20) is knowingly possessing a forged document with intent to use it. You can be charged with one or both.
Can a forgery charge be reduced in Washington County?
It depends on the case facts, your history, and the evidence. An experienced forgery defense lawyer Washington County can often negotiate to reduce a felony forgery to a misdemeanor (like falsifying business records) or seek an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for eligible first offenses.
What are common defenses to a forgery charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, absence of knowledge that the document was forged, and challenging the authenticity of the evidence. Your attorney will analyze the specifics to build the strongest defense.
Is forgery a felony in New York?
Yes, forgery in the first and second degrees are felonies (Class C and D). Forgery in the third degree is a Class A misdemeanor. The degree depends on the type of document forged (e.g., money, stocks, deeds).
How long does a forgery case take in Washington County?
A misdemeanor case may take 3-6 months. A felony case, which goes through grand jury indictment, can take 6-18 months or longer. The Speedy Trial Act (CPL § 30.30) sets time limits for the prosecution to be ready for trial.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related charges in Albany County. For other legal needs in Washington County, consider our Washington County Family Lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.