What the case usually turns on
In New York, forgery centers on creating or changing a written document so that it appears genuine when it is not, done with a dishonest purpose such as defrauding someone, and possessing a forged instrument with that purpose is a separate offense. The charges are graded by the type of document, so a forged check, deed, or government record can be treated more seriously than other papers. Intent is often the heart of the case. Signing for someone who authorized you to sign, or who you believed in good faith had authorized you, is very different from signing to take something that is not yours. Forgery is frequently charged alongside larceny or identity theft, which can change the picture considerably.
Gathering proof of authority
If you believed you had permission, look for anything that shows it: past documents signed the same way, emails or texts granting authority, a power of attorney, or people who knew about the arrangement. Keep the original documents if you have them, and do not alter or annotate them. Bank records and account histories can show who actually benefited from a transaction. Do not contact the person whose signature is at issue about the case or to ask them to withdraw a complaint, and do not contact them at all if an order of protection is in place. Handwriting comparisons and document analysis are sometimes part of these cases, so originals matter.
Where the first conversation goes
We review the accusatory instrument or the inquiry you received and identify which document is at issue and how the charge is graded. We talk through what you understood about your authority at the time and what evidence supports that understanding. In family situations, we look at whether a civil dispute over money or property is running alongside the criminal case. Immigration consequences and professional licensing are reviewed early for anyone who could be affected. From there, we discuss how the case is likely to proceed through arraignment and beyond.
