What is Forgery in Arizona?

A person commits forgery in Arizona if, with intent to defraud, the person:

• Falsely makes, completes or alters a written instrument; or
• Knowingly possesses a forged instrument; or
• Offers or presents, whether accepted or not, a forged instrument or one that contains false information.

In addition, the possession of five or more forged instruments may give rise to an inference that the instruments are possessed with an intent to defraud. The Arizona legislature has made Forgery a class 4 felony. Consequently, if a person is sentenced to prison, the range of sentence is a minimum of 1 year and a maximum sentence of 3.75 years. The is a presumptive term of 2.5 years. However, it may be possible first time offenders to receive probation.