Fairfield University Fake ID Forgery Charges
Have you been arrested for possessing or using a fake ID at Fairfield University? Fake ID forgery charges can have a tremendous impact on the futures of Fairfield University students, but a top criminal defense attorney may be able to help. For help building a credible defense and safeguarding your professional future, contact a dedicated CT lawyer today.
What is Forgery in Connecticut?
Connecticut General Statutes (“C.G.S.”) defines three degrees of forgery, Forgery in the First Degree (C.G.S. §53a-138), Forgery in the Second Degree (C.G.S. §53a-139), and Forgery in the Third Degree (C.G.S. §53a-140).
In all three degrees of the offense, the definition of forgery is the same. To commit a forgery, someone must:
- Act with the intent to defraud, deceive, or injure someone else
- Falsely make, complete, alter, issue, or possess a forged document
- Know that the document is forged
Top criminal lawyers will tell you that even if you never use a fake ID, merely possessing it is considered a serious criminal forgery offense in Connecticut. Possessing or using a fraudulent driver’s license is considered Forgery in the Second Degree (C.G.S. §53a-139).
Is Possessing or Using a Fake ID a Felony?
A fake document used for identification can take many different forms. If the fake ID purports to be a government-issued instrument such as a driver’s license, forgery of this document would be a felony. If the fake ID is a school identification card such as a Fairfield University card or another document, the forgery could be considered third-degree misdemeanor forgery.
Felony Forgery Penalties
Forgery in the Second Degree (C.G.S. §53a-139) is a Class D felony. It carries the potential for up to 5 years in jail, a fine of up to $5,000.00, and a period of probation.
In addition, if you are convicted of a forgery offense, you would have a criminal record. This can undermine all the hard work and money you have invested in college, as a criminal record is visible to potential employers, lenders, and anyone else who executes a simple online search of public records.
Misdemeanor Forgery Penalties
Forgery in the Third Degree (C.G.S. §53a-140) is a Class B misdemeanor. It carries the potential for up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.00. Though this is a misdemeanor, it carries many of the same effects on your criminal record.
Reach Out to a Fairfield University Fake ID Forgery Misdemeanor Attorney
For more information about criminal forgery charges and how to fight them, call a Fairfield University criminal defense lawyer at Mark Sherman Law today. Our lawyers have experience in defending against Fairfield University fake ID forgery misdemeanor charges and could speak to you about your legal options. Do not wait to find out how your future will be affected – reach out today.