Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed January 31, 2018
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A typical example of forgery occurs when you possess, create, alter or use a false writing in an attempt to commit fraud. However, forgery refers to a broad range of activities that take many forms including signing a name other than your own on documents such as checks, deeds, or wills, or uttering or trying to cash, transfer, or use a forged item (such as a false ID card) to obtain a line of credit. Committing a forgery is serious business in North Carolina because most of the forgery offenses are felonies.
One form of forgery is counterfeiting, which involves materials or services that are not what they purport to be, including securities such as stock certificates and currency. Although the counterfeiting of currency is primarily a federal crime, North Carolina like other states has their own state laws covering this subject area.
The chart below provides a summary of statutes related to North Carolina's forgery laws, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
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Penalties and Sentencing
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Class G felony (punishable by a prison term ranging from 10-25 months, a fine, or both.)
Class H felony (punishable by incarceration ranging from 5-20 months, a fine, or both.)
Class I felony (punishable by incarceration ranging from 4-10 months, a fine, or both.)
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Possible Defenses |
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Related Offenses |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you've been accused of violating North Carolina's forgery and counterfeiting laws, then you're dealing with the possibility of prison time and a felony on your record. With so much on the line, you might want to have a defense attorney on your side who can mount a strong defense on your behalf. Use Findlaw's directory to find one in your area.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many North Carolina attorneys offer free consultations.
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