Forgery Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Forgery in Burlington County is a serious offense prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-1, potentially carrying years in prison and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges, you need a dedicated forgery lawyer in Burlington County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for clients at the Superior Court in Mount Holly. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Understanding Forgery Laws in New Jersey
Forgery in New Jersey is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:21-1. The law states a person commits forgery if, with purpose to defraud or injure another, they alter, complete, issue, or transfer any writing of another without their authority, or utter any writing they know to be forged. Writings include documents like checks, deeds, contracts, prescriptions, and identification cards.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors in Burlington County build forgery cases, often relying on handwriting analysis, witness testimony, and digital evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the forgery statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:21-1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Forgery Charges in Burlington County
Forgery cases in Burlington County are heard in the Superior Court, Law Division – Criminal Part, located in Mount Holly. The process typically begins with a complaint or indictment. Prosecutors in this vicinage often pursue forgery charges aggressively, especially in cases involving financial documents or identity theft.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the state and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office to seek a favorable resolution.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial before a Superior Court judge.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will follow, where your attorney will argue for the most lenient penalties possible.
Potential Penalties for Forgery in NJ
In Burlington County, forgery is typically a third-degree crime punishable by 3 to 5 years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000, but can be elevated to a second-degree crime in certain circumstances.
| Offense Level | Degree | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Forgery | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years (State Prison) | Up to $15,000 | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
| Forgery of Certain Documents (e.g., money, securities) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (State Prison) | Up to $150,000 | All of the above, plus more severe impact on future opportunities and immigration status. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Forgery Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a history of over 4,739 case results firm-wide, we bring a depth of knowledge to forgery defenses. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to every client’s case.
Our Approach to Forgery Cases
We examine every detail of the state’s case. Defenses can include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, absence of knowledge that the document was forged, or challenging the authenticity of the evidence. An affordable forgery lawyer Burlington County residents can consult is available at our firm to discuss these strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Forgery Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 130. If you are searching for a forgery lawyer near me Burlington County, we provide 24/7 phone consultations. We serve communities throughout the county including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between forgery and uttering a forged instrument?
Yes, there is a difference. Forgery is the act of creating or altering a false writing. Uttering is knowingly presenting or using that forged document as if it were genuine. You can be charged with both.
Can a forgery charge be reduced in Burlington County?
It depends. The possibility depends on the evidence, your criminal history, and the specific facts. An experienced forgery lawyer Burlington County can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction to a disorderly persons offense or entry into a pre-trial intervention (PTI) program, which could lead to dismissal.
What should I do if I am accused of forgery?
Do not speak to law enforcement or prosecutors without an attorney. Immediately contact a defense lawyer. Preserve any evidence that may support your case, such as communications or legitimate documents, and provide them to your attorney.
Is forgery always a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-1, forgery is classified as a crime (New Jersey’s term for felony). There is no disorderly persons (misdemeanor) forgery charge, though a plea agreement may result in a downgrade.
How long does a forgery case take?
A forgery case in Superior Court can take anywhere from several months to over a year to resolve, depending on the issues in dispute, evidence, and whether it goes to trial. Your lawyer can provide a more specific timeline after reviewing your case.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles business law, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense in Burlington County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your forgery charge.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Forgery Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Forgery Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Forgery Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.