Forgery Case in Washington, D.C. No Conviction

The company had outstanding tax liabilities, preventing it from obtaining valid tax-clearance certificates.

Two foreign employees were approaching the end of their authorized stay, triggering the crisis that led to the Forgery suspicion.

Wanting to prevent unlawful status, the client digitally altered a previously issued certificate to make it appear current.

He submitted the modified document for a visa extension, unaware that this would legally qualify as Forgery, even without economic benefit.

The defense attorney focused on distinguishing malicious intent from a misguided humanitarian act.

The client genuinely believed he was merely correcting paperwork and did not consider the act “criminal Forgery.”

Counsel documented the absence of personal gain  no bonuses, bribes, or advantages  which helped frame the conduct as technical Forgery lacking typical criminal intent.

The lawyer gathered objective documents showing the Forgery arose from administrative weaknesses.

Evidence included tax-arrear notices, internal correspondence, and emails about visa deadlines creating pressure.

The defense mapped a timeline showing systemic issues and poor controls contributed to the Forgery incident.

Evidence showed no financial benefit tied to the alleged Forgery.

Statements from foreign employees described the client's consistent support, reinforcing that this was a non-exploitative, compassion-driven mistake.

Forgery requires awareness that an alteration is deceitful and intended to mislead.

The defense argued the client did not fully appreciate that updating an old certificate constituted independent Forgery.

By citing analogous cases, counsel emphasized the defendant’s mindset and lack of exploitative purpose.

Ultimately, prosecutors issued a no-charges-filed decision on the Forgery counts.

Only a minor immigration-related violation remained, handled through a summary fine.

The client avoided a criminal record, preventing long-term impact on employment and licensing.

Forgery involving public records is frequently a felony with multi-year imprisonment exposure.

Charges may apply both for the act of Forgery and for uttering the forged document.

Early legal consultation is essential to determine whether full Forgery liability exists.

Clients often ask whether humanitarian motives or lack of profit protect them from Forgery charges.

Intent matters greatly, even when the document alteration technically qualifies as Forgery.

SJKP quickly evaluates key facts, prepares statements, negotiates with investigators, and minimizes the long-term impact of any alleged Forgery.

If you fear that a past decision may be classified as Forgery in Washington, D.C., contact SJKP for immediate legal consultation.