Forgery Defense Strategies Illinois

Summary

Handwriting analysis can be requested as part of a forgery defense in Illinois. Public defenders, though state-appointed, are required to provide competent representation. If you cannot afford a handwriting analyst, the court may cover the cost upon request. Handwriting analysis results can be used as evidence in court if the analyst is recognized as an expert witness. Communicate with your public defender about these strategies.

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Peoria county in Illinois is charging me with two counts of forgery...I accepted a few checks from this lady I met on Facebook that wanted to buy a few things I had on marketplace for sale...I know I shouldn't had accepted checks from someone I don't know or ever met before..but I needed the money and sinvebi bank through cefcu i was confident that if the checks were fake or stolen they would stop it from going through. Well they went through...so I thought nothing of it...till now..my handwriting is not on either check..the lady even signed my name to em herself....now how can I prove that in court..that I never signed or forged anything at all. Can I ask for a handwriting analyst?
Hello **** Martin,
You can request a handwriting analysis as part of your defense in Illinois. Please consult with your attorney about this.
Rules in Illinois:
- Proving forgery requires evidence, including handwriting.
- Not all banks verify checks immediately, causing issues like yours.
Please speak to your attorney about these points.
I don't currently have an attorney. I can't even afford one either. And I know I'm entitled to representation. But I also know that the public defenders get paid by the state. So they don't really care if they win or lose. They're getting paid regardless .so I'm not very trusting or confident in relying on one to help me out in any way. I really need
Hello ****,
While it's true that public defenders are state-appointed, many are dedicated professionals. They're required to provide the best defense they can. It's your right to have legal representation, and public defenders are an option if you cannot afford a private attorney.
Will I have to pay for the handwriting analyst?
Hello ****,
In Illinois, the cost of a handwriting analyst can be covered by the court if you cannot afford one. However, this is not automatic and needs to be requested. Speak with your public defender about this.
Ok. Thank you. And will the results of the analyst hold up in court?
Yes, ****. Handwriting analysis results can be used as evidence in court, provided the analyst is recognized as an expert witness. The weight given to that evidence is up to the judge or jury.
Ok. Again thank you very much. This is a bit of relief for me
You're welcome, ****. We're here to help. Remember to communicate with your public defender about your concerns and strategies. Good luck with your case.