Counterfeiting is a serious criminal act in Santa Clarita. You can face counterfeiting charges in the state or federal court system, depending upon the facts surrounding your case. Convictions for counterfeiting can lead to years of time behind bars and high fines.
Fortunately, you can get help taking on a counterfeiting accusation by contacting the Simmrin Law Group right now. Our team of counterfeiting lawyers in Santa Clarita is prepared to build your defense. Call us at (310) 896-2723 to get started now.
State Charges for Counterfeiting in Santa Clarita
California’s court system often prosecutes the act of counterfeiting using Penal Code Section 470: Forgery. PC 470 is not only used to prosecute counterfeiting, but prosecutors often use this charge if someone is accused of creating a false representation of a:
- Money order
- Check or bond
- Traveler’s check
- Cashier’s check
Many other items can be counterfeited in the state of California, including things like handbags or shoes. Anytime someone tries to pass off a copy of something as the original object, they can be charged with counterfeiting.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Santa Clarita, call (310) 896-2723
Penalties for a PC 470 Conviction in Santa Clarita
PC 470 can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony throughout California. Generally, misdemeanor charges are used for counterfeiting that involves items worth less than $950. Felony charges may be used if someone:
- Counterfeits something for a value over $950
- Has previous convictions for violent crimes
- Has previous convictions for some sex crimes
A misdemeanor conviction under PC 470 can result in fines of up to $1,000 and jail time of up to one year. Felony convictions can lead to fines of up to $10,000 and jail time of up to three years. A criminal defense lawyer in Santa Clarita can help you handle any counterfeiting charges. Call (310) 896-2723 to get information about building a defense now.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Federal Charges for Counterfeiting in Santa Clarita
The federal court system steps in to handle some counterfeiting charges in the state of California. Generally, the federal court will only take on a case if someone counterfeits specific items, like:
- Legal, military, or government documents
- Postage stamps or securities
- Currency or ship’s papers
Counterfeiting charges do not only apply if someone counterfeits a restricted item. Individuals in Santa Clarita may be charged with counterfeiting in the federal court system if they:
- Possess tools used in counterfeiting
- Move or transport counterfeited items
- Trade, sell, or purchase counterfeited items
These actions can lead to incredibly harsh penalties if you are convicted, as we will discuss now.
Click to contact our Santa Clarita Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Penalties for a Federal Counterfeiting Conviction in Santa Clarita
There are a number of different penalties for federal counterfeiting convictions. In many cases, the exact penalties you face will depend upon the item you are accused of counterfeiting. However, in general, you could face:
- Fines of up to $250,000
- Prison time of up to 25 years
Working with a federal crimes lawyer in Santa Clarita can increase your odds of successfully resolving a counterfeiting accusation. Getting professional assistance right away can be the best way to prepare for a criminal trial for counterfeiting.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Defenses for Counterfeiting Charges in Santa Clarita
A Santa Clarita counterfeiting lawyer can help you handle the charges you are facing right now. We can investigate your case and begin working on your defense right away. Depending upon your situation, our criminal defense lawyers may be able to show that:
You Did Not Intend to Counterfeit Anything
In order to be convicted of counterfeiting, you must make fraudulent versions of a real item with the intent of passing them off as legitimate products or documents. If you made a false version of something as part of a joke, for example, you may be able to avoid a counterfeiting conviction.
You Did Not Know You Had a Counterfeited Item
It’s possible for you to come into possession of a counterfeited item without intention. If you were given an item and told it was legitimate, your lawyer could work to help you avoid a conviction. Get additional information about your options for a defense today with the Simmrin Law Group.
Speak to a Santa Clarita Counterfeiting Lawyer Now
A conviction for counterfeiting in Santa Clarita can lead to high fines and years of time in jail or prison. Get help handling both state and federal charges by reaching out to the Simmrin Law Group right now. We’re ready to review your legal options with a FREE initial case evaluation.
Call (310) 896-2723 or complete our online contact form to speak to a counterfeiting lawyer in Santa Clarita.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form