When you consider counterfeiting, some of the first images that come to mind may be fake dollar bills, falsified passports, or scenes from a movie. However, Louisiana state and federal prosecutors take this offense very seriously, and more people face these allegations yearly than you might think. According to the FBI’s most recent data, over 45,000 Americans were charged with counterfeiting and forgery in 2019 alone.
If you’re facing counterfeiting charges or suspect you may be under investigation, it’s imperative that you act now and partner with a knowledgeable white-collar crimes lawyer. Contact John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm and speak with our team today. We’re here to find the solution that best meets your needs.
What’s Considered Counterfeiting in Louisiana?
The crime of counterfeiting is considered forgery under Louisiana law. Outlined under RS 14:72.2, counterfeiting is a felony offense broadly defined as the creation, distribution, transfer, or sale of forged money or securities with the intent to deceive another person about its validity.
In simple terms, counterfeiting involves creating fake currency, coins, or any of the following:
- Bonds
- Checks or money orders
- Foreign banknotes
- Securities, like certificates of deposit
Counterfeiting is treated as a severe offense due to its potential to deceive consumers, harm businesses, and disrupt the economy. Even first-time offenders can face substantial state and federal penalties, so approaching these charges with a well-prepared legal strategy is critical.
Challenging Accusations of Producing or Using Fake Currency
To secure a conviction for counterfeiting, the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- The counterfeit currency was convincing enough to mislead an unsuspecting person into believing it was genuine
- The defendant knowingly used, created, or possessed the counterfeit currency with the intent to deceive or defraud another party
If a defense attorney can effectively demonstrate that the defendant lacked the intent to commit fraud, the chances of avoiding a conviction increase. Intent is a fundamental component of any criminal charge. Without it, the prosecution’s case may fall apart.
A potential defense could argue that the fake currency was so poorly made that it could not reasonably deceive anyone. While this argument may be limited, it highlights the importance of having a robust legal defense team to explore every avenue for challenging the charges against you.
Why Hiring an Experienced Trial Attorney Is Essential When Facing Counterfeit Charges
When it comes to counterfeiting charges, the potential consequences are too harsh to leave your defense to chance. A conviction for a felony counterfeit charge tried on the Louisiana state level carries harsh penalties, including:
- Fines from $5,000 to $1,000,000
- A prison sentence of six to ten years
- Restitution payments to whomever is considered to have suffered financial loss
Given the high stakes, it’s vital to work closely with a skilled trial attorney who can either build a strong defense or negotiate a favorable resolution with the government. Federal counterfeiting cases, in particular, are complex and carry substantial risks, including steep financial penalties and up to 20 years imprisonment.
Partnering with a seasoned attorney at John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm offers the strongest opportunity to secure a positive outcome.
Consult a Reputable White-Collar Crimes Defense Lawyer in Louisiana
The importance of having a solid legal defense cannot be overstated when facing forgery charges like counterfeiting. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can work toward resolving the case and getting your life back on track. To minimize the risk of facing the harshest penalties, secure legal representation from an attorney with experience defending against state and federal counterfeiting crimes.
Talk to one of the top Louisiana criminal defense lawyers, Eric G. Johnson of John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm. With more than 20 years of criminal law experience, he can review the details of your case and suggest the most strategic course of action. Contact our team today at 318-377-1555 or complete a contact form to schedule your free case evaluation.