Criminal Attorney Helps Those Facing Offenses Involving False Government Documents (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-2.1) Charges
Selling, manufacturing, possessing, or using false documents like a forged driver’s license or birth certificate is a crime in New Jersey under the statute Offenses Involving False Government Documents (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-2.1).
Selling and manufacturing such documents is a crime of the second degree, which can carry a penalty of 5-10 years in prison and fines of up to $150,000.
Using a false document for purposes other than purchasing alcohol or tobacco is a crime of the third degree, with a sentence of 3-5 years if convicted.
Simply possessing false identification is a fourth degree crime, with a maximum 18 month sentence available if you’re convicted.
While the purpose of the statute isn’t to target underage buyers of alcohol or tobacco, it is intended to put a stop to the adults who forge identification documents that are used in various types of fraud, as well as penalize those who use the documents.
These charges are often tied to equally serious criminal charges like human trafficking or organized crime, and conviction in connection to these can cost you decades of your life.
Attorney Matthew Reisig defends clients throughout New Jersey who are facing even the most serious criminal charges.
If you or a family member are dealing with offenses involving false government documents, call 732-625-9661 today for a free consultation.
