Forgery
First Degree
(a) A person commits the crime of forgery in the first degree if, with intent to defraud, he falsely makes, completes or alters a written instrument which is or purports to be, or which is calculated to become or to represent if completed:
- 1. Part of an issue or series of stamps, securities or other valuable instruments issued by a government or governmental agency; or
- 2. Part of an issue or series of stock, bonds or other instruments representing interests in or claims against a business enterprise or its property.
(b) Forgery in the first degree is a Class B felony.
Second Degree
(a) A person commits the crime of forgery in the second degree if, with intent to defraud, he falsely makes, completes or alters a written instrument which is or purports to be, or which is calculated to become or to represent if completed:
- 1. A deed, will, codicil, contract, assignment or a check, draft, note or other commercial instrument which does or may evidence, create, transfer, terminate or otherwise affect a legal right, interest, obligation or status; or
- 2. A public record, or an instrument filed or required or authorized by law to be filed in a public office or with a public employee; or
- 3. A written instrument officially issued or created by a public office, public employees or government agency.
(b) Forgery in the second degree is a Class C felony.
Third Degree
(a) A person commits the crime of forgery in the third degree if, with intent to defraud, he falsely makes, completes or alters a written instrument.
(b) Forgery in the third degree is a Class A misdemeanor.
The above is an excerpt (as of 05 May 2006) from Title 13A Criminal Section of The Code of Alabama 1975. This information is for reference only. For further explanation please contact Russell Crumbley's Law Office.