Forgery (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-1) can be graded as either a Third Degree Crime (maximum sentence of five years in prison) or a Fourth Degree Crime (maximum sentence of 18 months), depending on what was forged.
In the case of Third Degree Crime charges, the state is likely alleging that you forged money, securities, stamps (either postage or revenue stamps, such as the type found on cigarette packs), government-issued licenses, prescription blanks to obtain prescription drugs illegally, stocks or bonds, or documents asserting claims against a property or enterprise.
Third Degree Forgery is also charged when the forged instrument is, or purports to be, a check, or when the forged instrument is 15 or more forged retail sales receipts or UPC code labels.
The good news is that if you have no previous criminal record, a conviction for Forgery in the Third Degree has a presumption of non-incarceration.
For the very best outcome, work with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who can help build the strongest possible forgery defense.
Call Matthew Reisig today at 732-625-9661 for a free consultation regarding forgery in New Jersey.
