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How does Louisiana law define forgery?

On Behalf of | Jul 27, 2018 | Firm News, White Collar Crimes |

Some employees are tasked with handling money, signing document and acting on behalf of the entire company. These roles not only entail huge responsibilities but are also tasks that come with much power. Misusing these powers can come with serious repercussions. Even more so, facing such allegations can have very damaging effects to the accused’s professional and personal reputation.

How does Louisiana law define forgery? This white collar crime occurs when there is an intent to defraud by forging any signature, part or whole, or any writing that purports to have legal efficacy. This crime also occurs when an individual issues, transfers or possesses a forged writing with the intent to defraud and the offender is aware of the forged writing.

The act of forging means to alter, make, complete, execute or authenticate any writing as a means to purport that this is the act of another party that did not authorize this act, that the document was executed at a time or place or out of sequence than was in fact the case or that a document is a copy of an original when no such original exists.

Writing means a variety of things under Louisiana law. It means printing or any other method used to record information, money coins, tokens, stamps, seals, credit cards, badges and trademarks and symbols of value, right, privilege or identification.

Those accused of forgery could face harsh penalties. This crime carries with it a fine that does not exceed five thousand dollars. It could also result in imprisonment, with or without hard labor, lasting for no more than ten years.

Because this and other white collar crimes could result in serious penalties, it is vital to explore your rights and options in the matter. Criminal defense strategies are possible, and they could result in the reduction or dismissal of the charges against the defendant.

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