If you’ve been accused of counterfeiting in Birmingham, AL, confronting these charges can be a stressful and confusing experience. Understanding the seriousness of counterfeit-related offenses is crucial; they carry significant legal consequences that can impact your life and future. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with strong defense strategies to protect your rights throughout the legal process.
We are committed to ensuring that you receive fair treatment while advocating for the best possible outcome for your case. If you’re facing charges in Birmingham, AL, let us help. Contact Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. at 205-930-9800 to schedule a free consultation with a Birmingham counterfeiting charges lawyer.
How Our White Collar Crimes Attorneys Can Help If You’re Arrested for Counterfeiting
If you have been detained or arrested for counterfeiting offenses in Birmingham, Alabama, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation by your side. We can offer the following support:
- Help you understand the charges: There are several counterfeiting-related charges, and the law can be difficult to understand. We’ll explain exactly what you’re being accused of doing and the potential penalties you face.
- Gather evidence and build your defense: Our team will gather evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case against you and identify any weaknesses we may be able to exploit to obtain a dismissal or a not-guilty verdict.
- Negotiate a favorable plea deal: With our negotiation skills and knowledge of court processes, we will try to secure a plea deal that minimizes the charges and consequences facing you.
If you’re facing counterfeiting charges, we can help. Call Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. to schedule a free consultation with a Birmingham white collar crimes lawyer.
Overview of Counterfeiting Charges in Alabama
Counterfeiting in Alabama encompasses a range of activities that involve the creation or use of fraudulent documents with the intent to deceive. Understanding these charges is essential for individuals facing such allegations, as the specific nature of the offense can significantly impact the severity of the penalties.
Forgery
In Alabama, forgery is defined as the act of creating, altering, or completing any written document or symbol of value – such as a deed or a will – with the intent to deceive or defraud. The main element of this crime is intent.
Criminal Possession of Forged Instruments
Possessing forged documents while being aware of their falsity constitutes a criminal offense as well. An example includes knowingly holding a check with a forged signature with the intent to cash it.
Forgery Tools
Alabama law also criminalizes the possession of tools designed for the creation of forged documents.
In some cases, these could even be charged as federal crimes, which requires an attorney who is well-versed in the federal system.
What Are the Penalties For Counterfeiting Charges in Birmingham, Alabama?
In Alabama, the penalties for counterfeiting-related charges can vary significantly based on the nature and severity of the offense, and it’s essential to understand the potential consequences one may face if convicted.
Forgery Penalties
The penalties for forging official or financial documents in Birmingham are classified as either Class B or Class C felonies, contingent upon the nature of the document involved.
Class B felonies carry severe repercussions, including imprisonment for a term ranging from two to 20 years, along with potential fines reaching up to $30,000.
Class C felonies may lead to imprisonment ranging from one year and one day to a maximum of 10 years and with fines of up to $15,000 or twice the financial loss incurred by the victim.
Possession of Forged Documents Penalties
Possessing forged official or financial documents while aware of their falsity is subjected to the same classification as forgery. Depending on the specific circumstances, charges may result in either Class B or Class C felony charges.
Possession of Forgery Tools Penalties
Alabama law states that the possession of tools intended for creating forged documents is penalized as a Class C felony.
Understanding the legal implications and potential penalties associated with counterfeiting offenses is crucial for individuals facing these charges.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Counterfeiting?
If you are arrested for counterfeiting, there are several potential defenses that may be raised in your case. Understanding these defenses is critical for navigating this process. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no intention to deceive or defraud can serve as a strong defense. If you can establish that you were unaware that the documents were forged, this may negate the required intent for a conviction.
- Mistaken Identity: Proving that you were not the individual involved in the counterfeiting act can be a viable defense. This might involve presenting alibi evidence or other documentation that supports your claim.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime that you otherwise would not have engaged in, you may have a valid entrapment defense. This requires showing that the authorities persuaded you to commit the counterfeiting offense.
These defenses can significantly impact the outcome of counterfeiting charges.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Birmingham Counterfeiting Charges Lawyer
If you are facing counterfeiting charges, it is essential to consult with an experienced attorney who is well-versed in handling these specific types of cases. Our team has extensive experience representing clients in counterfeit and forgery cases and can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and determine the best course of action for your defense. Contact Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. at (205)-930-9800 to schedule a free consultation with a Birmingham counterfeiting charges lawyer.