Discovering that a loved one has been arrested for forgery can be shocking and overwhelming. Thoughts race through your mind — What does this mean for them? What will happen next? How do I protect them? Forgery is considered a serious criminal offense in California, and a conviction can have long‑lasting consequences on a person’s life, career, and reputation.

If you are in Fresno or the surrounding Central Valley and find yourself in this situation, it’s critical to understand the charges, the legal process, and most importantly, the steps you need to take right now to safeguard your family member’s future.

Understanding Forgery Charges in California

Under California Penal Code 470, forgery occurs when someone falsifies or alters a document with the intent to defraud. Common examples include:

• Signing someone else’s name without authorization

• Altering checks or financial documents

• Creating fake identification cards

• Falsifying legal documents

• Producing counterfeit contracts or records

Forgery is considered a “wobbler” offense in California, which means it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances, including the amount involved and the defendant’s criminal history.

Why Forgery Arrests Are Serious

A forgery conviction can lead to severe penalties, including:

• Incarceration — up to three years in county jail for felony forgery

• Fines — which may reach thousands of dollars

• Restitution — repayment of any financial loss caused

• Probation — with strict terms and conditions

• Permanent criminal record — affecting employment, housing, and licensing opportunities

In some cases, forgery charges are paired with related offenses such as fraud, theft, or identity theft. This can significantly increase the potential penalties.

First Steps You Should Take Immediately

When a loved one is arrested for forgery, time is of the essence. Here are the immediate actions you should take:

1. Stay Calm and Gather Facts

Your first reaction may be panic, but staying composed will help you make clear decisions. Find out basic information:

• Where they are being held

• The exact charges they face

• Upcoming court dates

• Whether bail has been set

2. Avoid Discussing Details Without a Lawyer

Anything your family member says to police — or even to others — could be used against them. Encourage them to remain silent until they have legal counsel present.

3. Contact an Experienced Fresno Criminal Lawyer

Forgery cases require in‑depth knowledge of California criminal law. An experienced Fresno criminal defense attorney can analyze the charges, review evidence, and develop strong defense strategies.

Mark Broughton has defended countless clients against serious charges — including complex white‑collar crimes like forgery — ensuring their rights are protected every step of the way. His decades of experience and specialized certification in criminal law provide clients with a powerful defense.

4. Address Bail and Release Options

Your attorney can help argue for lower bail or alternative release options. In certain forgery cases, effective negotiation can help avoid unnecessary detention.

Building a Strong Defense

Every forgery case is unique. The defense strategy often revolves around challenging the prosecution’s evidence, proving lack of intent, or demonstrating mistaken identity. Potential defense approaches include:

• No intent to defraud — The law requires intent. If your family member did not intend to deceive, this could weaken the case.

• Mistaken identity — They may have been wrongly identified as the person who committed the act.

• Insufficient evidence — If the prosecution cannot produce substantial proof, charges may be reduced or dismissed.

• Consent given — In some cases, authorization to sign or alter documents can be a valid defense.

Mark Broughton’s familiarity with Fresno County courts and deep understanding of California forgery statutes means he can find areas where the prosecution’s case is vulnerable.

The Legal Process for Forgery Charges

Knowing what to expect can greatly reduce anxiety. A typical forgery case proceeds through:

1. Arrest — Law enforcement takes the suspect into custody.

2. Booking — Fingerprinting, photographs, and entry into the system.

3. Arraignment — Formal reading of charges and opportunity to enter a plea.

4. Pretrial hearings — Where evidence is shared and motions may be filed.

5. Trial or Negotiation — The case may go before a jury or be resolved via plea agreement.

6. Sentencing — If convicted, penalties are imposed.

Throughout this process, having a skilled defense attorney can influence bail amounts, pretrial motions, and negotiations with prosecutors.

Potential Consequences of a Conviction

The fallout from a forgery conviction goes beyond criminal penalties:

• Difficulty obtaining jobs in finance, legal, or government sectors

• Loss of professional licenses

• Damage to personal and professional reputation

• Immigration consequences for non‑citizens

• Difficulty renting housing due to background checks

Because of these far‑reaching consequences, you should never take a forgery arrest lightly.

How a Fresno Defense Attorney Can Help

The sooner your family retains a knowledgeable attorney, the greater the chance of achieving a favorable outcome. Mark Broughton provides:

• Case evaluation — Reviewing documents, witness statements, and the prosecution’s evidence

• Court representation — Aggressive defense in Fresno County Superior Court

• Negotiation — Working to reduce charges, secure probation, or achieve dismissal

• Support through the process — Guiding families with compassion during every stage

Clients appreciate Mark’s honest assessment of their situation, which allows them to make informed decisions about their case. His proven track record includes defending complex criminal charges with skill and persistence.

What You Should Not Do

When a loved one is facing forgery charges, avoid these mistakes:

• Interfering with the investigation

• Posting about the situation on social media

• Providing documents or statements without legal guidance

• Assuming the charges will “go away” without defense action

Doing any of the above can worsen the situation and complicate your lawyer’s efforts.

Forgery Cases in the Central Valley: Local Insight Matters

Fresno County has its own procedural nuances when it comes to criminal cases. Local knowledge can be an advantage in forging defenses and navigating the system quickly. Mark Broughton, who has practiced in the Central Valley for decades, understands how local judges, prosecutors, and legal processes work — which can be pivotal for strategic defense decisions.

Final Thoughts: Act Quickly to Protect Your Family Member

The most important step following a forgery arrest is to secure legal representation immediately. Delays can mean lost opportunities to challenge evidence, negotiate bail, or dismiss charges early.

If your loved one has been arrested for forgery in Fresno, the path forward starts with expert legal guidance. Contact Mark Broughton’s office today to schedule a one‑on‑one consultation. He will review your case, explain all your options, and fight for the best possible outcome.

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Call Mark Broughton at (559) 691-6222 or visit fresnocriminallawyer.com to get started. He is on your side — and ready to protect your family member’s future.