Forgery cases concern whether a document is genuine and who made, altered or used it. They often depend on expert examination of the document.
Where this fits: Any stage, often with expert review.
What counts as forgery?
Making or altering a document to make it appear genuine, or knowingly using one that is false.
What must be proved depends on the offence.
How is a signature dispute resolved?
Often by expert examination.
The defence can challenge the expert's method and conclusions.
Is using a document the same as forging it?
They can be separate allegations, and knowledge is central to using a false document.
What should I do first?
Secure the original document
The original matters more than copies.
Do not handle it unnecessarily
Keep it as is.
Identify who created and held it
A timeline helps.
Ask about an independent expert
A second opinion can change the case.
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Topics in this area
Within forgery we cover:
- Document forgery
- Signature forgery
- Contract forgery
Detailed guides
Document Forgery
How the law defines forgery of official and non-official documents, including contracts and commercial papers, and the penalty for using a forged document.
Read the guideSignature Forgery
When a signature, seal or thumbprint is forged, tricked out of someone, or put on a blank paper, and how experts examine signatures.
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
Can a forgery case start from a civil dispute?
Yes, parties sometimes allege forgery during a commercial dispute.
Does the court rely on handwriting experts?
Often, though the court weighs the evidence overall.
What if I did not know a document was false?
Knowledge is generally central. Explain it carefully with your lawyer.
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