California Forgery faq – california penal code section 470

Forgery FAQ: Calfornia Penal Code Section 470

 
1. Can a forgery charge be reduced to a lesser charge?Yes. If your attorney can effectively attack any element of the crime, the charged can be dismissed entirely or at least reduced to “attempted forgery.” A conviction under this reduced charge will result in a much less serious sentence.
2. Is there any way I can avoid having this forgery charge on my record? Yes. If the matter concerns the passing of a bad check, you may qualify for a bad check diversion program, which requires repaying the victims in full and participating in intervention classes. Upon presenting proof of successful completion, the court may dismiss your case. This type of result will require the assistance of an experienced criminal defense law firm.
3. Can I avoid jail time? Yes. To help you avoid jail time, your attorney may arrange for you to participate in the Work Release Program in conjunction with trash pickup, community service, and home confinement. See California Penal Code Section 4024.2
4. What if I returned what I took or repaid the victims? Unfortunately, it does not matter whether you returned the property or somehow made restitution to the victims. You may still face forgery charges because the crime does not require that the victim actually suffer any monetary loss.
5. What if the document I am accused of forging is not a type of document specifically listed in Section 470?

Forging a type of document that is not specifically listed in Penal Code Section 470(d) may still be prosecuted. As long as you had forged the handwriting of another person, you may still be charged with forgery under this statute.