Fraud and Forgery Defense Attorneys in Mount Vernon: Experienced Legal Help
Every year, Mount Vernon criminal defense attorneys represent hundreds of individuals falsely accused of fraud and forgery. Often arising from business and personal conflicts, misunderstandings, or mistaken identities, these claims may also be malicious and deliberate, resulting in the accused being charged with a felony they did not commit.
In Washington State, felony charges can result in jail or prison time and potentially the loss of employment, reputation, and financial security.
Get Immediate Legal Assistance and Support From Our Skagit County Fraud and Forgery Defense Attorneys
At Washington Criminal Attorneys, PLLC, we understand how frightening and overwhelming it is to be falsely accused of a felony. Representation by our Mount Vernon defense lawyers means you will have Washington state’s best legal council team rigorously defending you in court against baseless charges. Following your consultation appointment, we develop effective defense strategies targeting specific aspects of your case that will nullify prosecutorial claims.
Financial concerns should not stand in the way of justice. Our Skagit County law firm generally offers reasonable flat rates and flexible payment options. Don’t allow false accusations of fraud or forgery to ruin your life or the lives of your loved ones. Contact our Washington State defense lawyers today for immediate assistance.
Washington State Fraud and Forgery Statutes
Washington State statutes regulating acts of fraud and forgery define fraud as intentionally deceiving someone for personal gain. Deceptive representation, identity theft, wire fraud, and debt collection scams are standard examples of fraud.
According to RCW 9A.30.020, forgery occurs when “he or she falsely makes, completes, or alters a written instrument or possesses, utters, offers, disposes of, or puts off as true a written instrument, which he or she knows to be forged.”
Simply put, forgery (a class C felony) is creating or altering a document “with intent to deceive.” This type of felony involves forging signatures on legal documents such as checks, loan papers, tax forms, and property deeds.
In addition, a person may be committing forgery when they knowingly handle, present, distribute, or attempt to pass off a forged document as genuine, regardless of whether they created the forgery themselves or are aware of its fraudulent nature.
Forgery Statutes
Obtaining a signature by coercion or deception (9A.60.030): Intentionally inducing another person to sign a written document using deceitful tactics or coercion to defraud or harm the individual.
Falsely altering, making, or completing a written instrument (RCW 9A.60.020(1)(a)): Intentionally creating or changing a legal document, such as a will or tax form, is forgery. For example, a person could alter a last will by removing or adding beneficiaries or changing asset distribution instructions without modifying the original signature. This is considered a forgery in Washington State.
False certification (RCW 9A.60.050): A gross misdemeanor in Washington, false certification is knowingly certifying falsely that an instrument’s execution was proven or acknowledged or that a paper copy of an electronic record is accurate. Suppose a notary public is fully aware they are certifying an incomplete or false document. In that case, they could be charged with the gross misdemeanor of false certification, potentially spend one year in prison, and pay a $5000 fine.
Obtaining employment with forged recommendations (RCW 49.44.040): If someone alters or creates a recommendation letter to obtain employment, they could be charged with class C felony forgery, even if the employer does not hire them.
Fraud Statutes
Criminal impersonation (9A.60.040): Criminal impersonation in the first degree, a class C felony, involves a person assuming a false identity to defraud and commit illegal activities. Posing as a police officer to gain access to restricted information is an example of fraud.
Criminal impersonation (9A.60.045): Criminal impersonation in the second degree refers to an individual impersonating any law enforcement office or falsely claiming to be an active-duty military member or veteran. Being charged with second-degree criminal impersonation/fraud must include evidence that the person intended to defraud others or facilitate unlawful activities.
Chapter 9.45 of the Washington State Legislature lists additional acts of fraud and scams punishable by prison time and fines.
About Mount Vernon, Washington
Home to over 35,000 residents, Mount Vernon is the county seat of Skagit County, Washington. Mount Vernon is famous for its annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which showcases millions of blooming tulips, street fairs, and outdoor performances. Tourists visit Mount Vernon, Washington, year-round to see the Lincoln Theatre, the Celtic Arts Foundation, Skagit County Parks, and the impressive Skagit County River.
Mount Vernon’s Chamber of Commerce lists dozens of community attractions and resources, such as the Skagit County Fair, the Boys and Girls Club, Senior Centers, and the Skagit Valley YMCA. In addition, Mount Vernon is one of the few places in the US offering an advanced fiber optic infrastructure that supports high-speed Internet.
Although Mount Vernon is one of the best places to live and work in Washington State, it must deal with daily criminal activity impacting all residents. Fraud and forgery defense attorneys are always prepared to defend Skagit County residents against false accusations.
Penalties for Forgery in Mount Vernon, Washington
Forgery convictions can result in up to five years in Washington State prison and fines as high as $10,000. Since forgeries are class C felonies in Washington, individuals convicted of forgery will be imprisoned in the Monroe Correctional Complex, the Washington State Penitentiary, or another state-run correctional facility. Once released, they may find obtaining a driver’s license and employment as a parolee difficult, if not impossible.
Penalties for Fraud in Mount Vernon, Washington State
Misdemeanor fraud penalties include up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Unlawful issuance of checks or drafts is a misdemeanor for amounts under $750. Felony fraud involves theft between $750 and $5,000, with penalties of up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Prior criminal histories and other factors often influence the severity of penalties the judge considers during sentencing.
Statute of Limitations for Fraud and Forgery in Washington
The statute of limitations for forgery is three years. Fraud, such as identity theft or insurance fraud, has various statutes of limitations ranging from three to ten years.
Exceptions to the statute of limitations include the discovery rule. The discovery rule may apply to concealed or ongoing fraud that continues undetected for an extended time. In other words, the statute of limitations may not start until the fraud is discovered.
Falsely Arrested for Fraud or Forgery? Contact Mount Vernon, Washington, Fraud and Forgery Defense Attorneys for Immediate Help
If you or someone you know is falsely arrested for forgery or fraud, call Washington criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible. Our seasoned felony defense attorneys utilize the most effective, high-impact defenses against forgery and fraud charges, such as proving lack of intent, constitutional rights violations, clarifying inconsistencies in the charges, and arguing the legal paradigm of mistake of fact or law.
Get the personal attention your case deserves. We are available 24/7. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you fight for your rights.
