When the integrity of the judicial system is at stake, courts take extra precautions to ensure that the court system remains free from taint and crime. To that end, in all jurisdictions — including Muskogee — forging fraudulent evidence at trial is a crime.
Oklahoma Makes all Forging Fraudulent Evidence a Crime
Anytime we offer anything into evidence, we are acknowledging its truth and authenticity. We expect the judge and the jury to accept the truth and authenticity of evidence. This is true of every book, paper, document, record or another instrument of writing offered.
Oklahoma law makes it a felony to offer any forged or fraudulently altered document or writing into evidence. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 451
This law prohibits forging fraudulent evidence, even if we are not the person who made the fraudulent alteration.
Even preparing documents falsely with the intent to produce them or to allow them to be produced at trial or another legal proceeding is a felony. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 453
Let’s say a client alters a date on an important document that absolves him a contractual liability. He does so without telling his attorney, but knowing that document could win his case at trial, the client could be guilty of a felony.
Falsifying reports in a crime lab that you know will be used in court is another example of a violation of this statute. This may happen if the crime lab’s work is shoddy, or if the police have a problem with what is called the “chain of custody” regarding a particular piece of evidence.
Tainting Witness Testimony
Likewise, to knowingly make a false statement or representation, or anyone who practices any fraud or deceit, to or upon a witness or person about to be called as a witness in a legal proceeding with the intent to change that person’s testimony, can be found guilty of a misdemeanor. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 452
This law prohibits the intentional tainting of witness testimony. While just a misdemeanor, you could still spend jail time, up to one year in the county jail, if convicted. Felony counts mean mandatory prison time. If you or a loved one are facing charges for forged or fraudulent evidence, now is the time to contact an attorney.
Low-cost Consultation: Muskogee Defense Attorney
We are here to help you. The capable, experienced Muskogee criminal defense attorneys at the Wirth Law Office will carefully explain the process and alternatives you face, and are willing and able to explore all possible defenses and fight all out for you. Get the help you need.
Call an experienced Muskogee criminal offense attorney today at (918) 913-0725,. If you prefer, you can use the box in the upper right-hand corner of this page to send a brief question or message.
