First-degree forgery typically addresses the most severe cases, often involving official or highly valuable documents.

In most jurisdictions, forgery in the first degree occurs when an individual makes, completes, alters, or possesses forgery in the first degree  a forged instrument that relates to government, financial, or legal matters of major importance. This may include forging deeds, wills, contracts, checks, money orders, public records, or identification documents. Because these instruments carry significant weight in both personal and public affairs, altering them unlawfully has the potential to cause widespread harm or loss.

The key element in a charge of first-degree forgery is intent. The prosecution must show that the accused intended to defraud or deceive another party. For example, if someone knowingly forges another person’s signature on a property deed to transfer ownership, that act demonstrates clear intent to deprive the rightful owner and unlawfully benefit from the fraud. Similarly, forging government-issued identification or currency is often classified as first-degree forgery due to the high risk of financial loss, identity theft, or disruption of lawful transactions.

First-degree forgery is usually classified as a felony, carrying severe penalties such as significant fines, probation, restitution to victims, and lengthy prison sentences. The severity of the punishment often depends on the value of the forged instrument and the extent of harm caused. Courts also consider aggravating factors, such as whether the forgery was part of a larger fraudulent scheme or committed against a vulnerable individual.

It is important to note that mere possession of a forged instrument, with knowledge of its falsity and intent to use it, may also be sufficient for a conviction. Defenses to forgery charges may include lack of intent,