Penalty for document forgery

Penalty for document forgery – What are the real consequences?

Document forgery is one of those crimes that is often underestimated. Many consider it a „trivial offense.“ But anyone who forges a document risks severe penalties, an entry in their criminal record, and, in the worst case, even a prison sentence.
As an experienced Lawyer in Mainz As a lawyer specializing in criminal law, I, Waldemar Dill, explain the penalties for document forgery, how courts assess such cases, and why early criminal defense is crucial.

What does document forgery mean according to the law?

Document forgery is regulated in Section 267 of the Criminal Code (StGB). According to this, anyone who

• produces a false document,
• falsifies a genuine document or
• uses a false or forged document to commit fraud in legal transactions.

A document is any embodied result of thought that is suitable and intended to prove a legally relevant fact and that identifies the issuer. That sounds complicated, but it can be explained quickly:
A signed contract, a doctor's note, a certificate, or an official ID card—all of these are documents.

What is the penalty for document forgery?

The penalty for document forgery is significantly higher than many people think. The law stipulates:

Imprisonment for up to five years or a fine (Section 267 (1) StGB). However, the exact penalty for document forgery depends heavily on the individual case—for example, on the intention behind the forgery and its extent.

Typical factors for sentencing

• Amount of damage or intended deception
• Degree of criminal intent (e.g., spontaneous act or premeditated fraud)
• Criminal record or confession
• Insight and cooperation with the investigating authorities

So anyone who thinks that a little manipulation will „slip through“ is mistaken. Even a forged signature or a manipulated certificate can result in a substantial fine or even imprisonment.

Penalty for document forgery: How courts decide in practice

In practice, courts make a clear distinction between simple and professionally prepared acts.

An example: Someone who forges a signature to cancel a cell phone contract is viewed differently than someone who submits a fake doctor's note to their employer.

In the case of one-time offenses without economic gain, a fine is often sufficient. In the case of repeated or commercial document forgery, however, prison sentences are regularly imposed., However, these will only no longer be suspended on probation if the offender already has a relevant previous conviction or if the prison sentence imposed is more than two years..

Typical cases from practice

1. Fake certificate of incapacity for work (medical certificate):
   Anyone who falsifies a medical certificate is guilty of document forgery—even if they were actually ill. Simply imitating a doctor's signature is sufficient.
2. Falsified exam certificates or resumes:
   Fake grades or fabricated degrees are a classic example of criminal offenses, especially in job applications.
3. Fake vaccination cards or COVID-19 test certificates:
   This is an issue that has triggered many legal proceedings during the pandemic. Digital forgeries also count as document forgery.
4. Amended contracts or receipts:
   Even minor changes, such as the date or a sum, can be punishable by law if they are intended to deceive.
5. Fake vehicle documents:
   Fake TÜV reports, registrations, or driver's licenses are particularly common in connection with traffic law.

What is not document forgery?

Not every forgery is automatically a criminal offense of document forgery.
Examples:

• Even fraud without a document—such as providing false information in a conversation—is not document forgery.
• A photocopy without intent to deceive is not a document.
• A modified digital file (e.g., Word document) is only punishable if it is printed out or used as a document.

Possible defense strategies in cases of document forgery

As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I carefully examine each case to determine whether a document within the meaning of Section 267 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) actually exists and whether the intent to deceive can be proven.
It often turns out that the accusations are exaggerated or untenable.

Possible defense strategies:

• No authentic document available
• No intent or intent to deceive
• Minor or inconsequential offense
• Voluntary disclosure or confession in cooperation with authorities

Early consultation can be crucial in bringing the proceedings to an end before charges are brought—as is often the case at the Dill law firm.

Why you should take immediate action in cases of document forgery

Penalty for document forgery? Many clients only seek help when they already have a penalty order or summons in their mailbox. But the sooner you respond, the greater the chances of avoiding a conviction.

In recent years, I have resolved numerous cases in Mainz and the surrounding area without a trial—through targeted communication with the public prosecutor's office and clever defense strategies. This saves time, nerves, and protects your good reputation.

Tip: Contact an experienced professional immediately. Criminal defense in Mainz, if you are accused of document forgery.

Criminal defense in Mainz and Wiesbaden – Experience makes the difference

I am one of the few criminal defense attorneys in Mainz with Russian roots. Since being admitted to the bar in 2023, I have successfully established and continuously developed my own law firm. In 2025, I can look back on numerous successful cases and a strong client base. Whether as a Lawyer in Mainz, or as Lawyer in Wiesbaden. Many people from Mainz, Wiesbaden, and the entire Rhine-Main area trust in my experience, my commitment, and my clear, solution-oriented approach to criminal law and criminal defense. I also take on cases involving document forgery. Criminal defense in Wiesbaden with the aim of concluding proceedings without a public hearing.

How does a trial for document forgery proceed?

1. Preliminary investigation:
   After a complaint is filed, the public prosecutor's office checks whether there is initial suspicion. This often involves a house search or the seizure of documents.
2. Interrogation:
   The accused is invited to make a statement—which should be avoided at all costs without legal counsel.
3. Access to the investigation file:
   Only your lawyer can view the file and evaluate the evidence.
4. Procedural strategy:
   Depending on the situation, it may be advisable to file a motion to dismiss (§ 153a StPO), seek a plea bargain, or mount a defense against the evidence.
5. Verdict or dismissal:
   Goal of the defense: no trial, no criminal record, no publicity.

Costs and fees for document forgery

The costs of defense are based on the Lawyers' Fees Act (RVG).
In complex cases or those involving particularly high costs, an individual fee agreement can also be arranged. Transparency and fairness are a matter of course—you always know what to expect.

Conclusion: Penalties for document forgery – Act quickly

The penalty for document forgery can have serious consequences—from a criminal record to imprisonment. However, with the right defense strategy, many proceedings can be stopped at an early stage. If you are accused of document forgery, do not hesitate:

Have your case reviewed now!