Columbus Fake ID Lawyer | Free Consultation

Having a fake identification, or ID, is a type of forgery. When it happens, and police learn of it, charges are likely, and what may have seemed like a harmless situation can become a criminal record. At Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt, our fake ID lawyer in Columbus works with those facing criminal charges for forgery.

We have been Ohio’s premier criminal defense firm for over 30 years. Let our Columbus criminal defense lawyer help you determine what your legal rights are moving forward.

Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm in Columbus

As a nationally recognized law firm, Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt has proudly served Columbus residents for more than three decades. During that time, we have helped over 15,000 clients get the legal guidance they desperately need to protect their futures. When you hire our lawyer, you gain our tenacious, dedicated, and aggressive team.

Throughout our careers, we have built a reputation for helping clients navigate some of the most challenging legal matters with confidence. Meet with us and learn more about our team and why our firm has a 99% positive client rating. What you will learn is that we are committed to making a difference in our clients’ futures.

We help people. No matter what you are facing right now, you need an advocate working by your side to protect your rights and guide you in navigating the legal system. As one of the top 10 criminal defense attorneys in Ohio, we know the importance of pursuing every avenue of the law to protect our clients’ futures. You can trust us to be your ally in this fight. Review our case results today to learn more.

For a free legal consultation with a fake id lawyer serving Columbus, call (614) 884-1100

What is a Fake ID Charge in Columbus

Forgery is a crime of dishonesty in the state, which means the prosecutor must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a person acted in a way that was dishonest. If you are arrested or charged with having a fake ID, it may seem like there is nothing you can do to cast the doubt that the law requires to have charges dismissed. That is rarely the case.

Forgery occurs when you present or use purposefully inaccurate documentation. For example, you put false information on an ID card. You may have changed your age, name, birthdate, or other identifying information to misrepresent yourself.

A fake ID charge may be applied to any person engaging in this action. At our law firm, we see this consistently in teens and those under the age of 21 who are trying to access alcohol or environments they are prohibited from entering. In all situations, it is critical to protect your rights in these cases by hiring a Columbus fake ID lawyer to guide you.

Columbus Fake ID Lawyer Near Me (614) 884-1100

Legal Definition of Forgery in Ohio

Having a fake ID is a forgery offense under Ohio law, specifically O.R.C. § 2913.31. Forgery can occur in multiple ways, including:

Making
Executing
Altering
Completing
Reproducing
Otherwise authenticating that a document, specifically an identification document that contains purposefully misrepresented information

The law refers to a fake ID as a forged identification card. It may apply to state-issued identification cards, such as your driver’s license. To be charged, you may have been found to have a fake ID in your possession or have tried to use one. You can find more information in our frequently asked questions.

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Potential Penalties for a Fake ID Forgery Conviction

A variety of factors determine the outcome of a forgery charge, including who is involved and what actions occurred. The law allows for a person convicted of forgery to face jail time, fines, and potentially other consequences.

This is an aggravated charge, carrying a higher risk of serious consequences, in situations where a person is found selling or distributing fake IDs. In these situations, you could face a first-degree misdemeanor charge. In these situations, you may face up to 180 days in jail if this is your first offense. You likely will face at least a minimum fine of $250.

In many situations, those who have a fake ID or are found using it are less likely to face jail time, but they may still face consequences such as fines. It can also create a criminal record for you, which can follow you throughout your life.

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How We Can Defend Against a Forgery Charge

Meet with our Columbus fake ID attorney to learn more about what you are facing after we review the evidence available in your case. Various defense strategies may be applicable to adults facing forgery charges. This may include:

Mistaken identity, noting that the fake ID was not yours, and demonstrating how you came into possession of it
Demonstrating the nonexistence of a crime, noting that you may have had the fake ID, but you did not attempt to commit a crime while using it, such as purchasing alcohol under the age of 21
Showing a lack of criminal intent, which may include demonstrating that you did not indicate that you were violating the law or had plans to do so

Each case is vitally important to investigate thoroughly before any type of defense strategy can be applied. Our legal team will look at every possible defense strategy that may apply and work with you to seek the dismissal of your charges, a reduction in your charges, or reduced penalties as applicable.

Teens and Fake IDs

It is not uncommon for teens to seek out and even possess a fake ID, but it is illegal for them to do so, and that means if found guilty, they may have a criminal record.

Our legal team aims to help first–time offenders under 21 enter diversion programs, minimizing the risk of a criminal record. If your minor is facing such charges, contact our attorneys for guidance.