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Is a conviction for forgery under $500 a felony in Mississippi?

Is a conviction for forgery under $500 a felony in Mississippi?

Full question:

Is Miss. Code Ann. 97-21-59 and /or 97-21-33 a swing statue? Would someone convicted of uttering forgery under $500.00 be a felony?

Category: Criminal
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Mississippi

Answer:

The term "felony" refers to any law violation punishable by death or imprisonment in the penitentiary (Miss. Code Ann. § 97-3-11). Under Miss. Code Ann. § 97-21-33, a person convicted of forgery faces imprisonment for two to ten years or a fine up to ten thousand dollars. However, if the value involved is less than five hundred dollars ($500), the punishment can be reduced to a maximum of six months in county jail or a fine up to one thousand dollars, at the court's discretion.

Miss. Code Ann. § 97-21-59 addresses the crime of uttering a counterfeit instrument. If convicted, the punishment aligns with the penalties for forgery. Therefore, whether a conviction under these statutes is classified as a felony depends on the specific circumstances and the court's sentencing.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is uttering forgery a felony in Mississippi?

Uttering forgery in Mississippi can be classified as a felony, depending on the circumstances. Under Miss. Code Ann. § 97-21-33, a person convicted of uttering a counterfeit instrument may face penalties similar to those for forgery. If the value involved is less than $500, the punishment may be reduced to a maximum of six months in county jail or a fine up to $1,000 at the court's discretion. Therefore, it is essential to consider the value and specific details of the case. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is the penalty for forgery in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, the penalty for forgery varies based on the value involved. Under Miss. Code Ann. § 97-21-33, a person convicted of forgery may face imprisonment for two to ten years or a fine up to $10,000. However, if the value of the forgery is less than $500, the punishment can be reduced to a maximum of six months in county jail or a fine up to $1,000, depending on the court's discretion. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is the statute 97 21 59 in Mississippi?

Miss. Code Ann. § 97-21-59 addresses the crime of uttering a counterfeit instrument. This statute outlines the penalties for individuals who present or use a forged instrument with the intent to defraud. The penalties for this offense align closely with those for forgery, which can include imprisonment and fines depending on the value involved. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is the statute 97 21 33 in Mississippi?

Miss. Code Ann. § 97-21-33 defines the crime of forgery in Mississippi. This statute specifies that a person commits forgery when they create, alter, or use a false instrument with the intent to defraud. Penalties for forgery under this statute can include imprisonment for two to ten years or a fine up to $10,000, although lesser penalties may apply if the value involved is under $500. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is the difference between forgery and uttering a forgery?

Forgery involves creating or altering a false document with the intent to defraud, while uttering a forgery refers to presenting or using that forged document to deceive others. Essentially, forgery is the act of making the false instrument, and uttering is the act of using it. Both offenses can carry serious penalties under Mississippi law, depending on the circumstances and the value involved. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*

What is uttering forgery in Mississippi?

Uttering forgery in Mississippi refers to the act of presenting or using a forged document with the intent to deceive or defraud. This can include passing a counterfeit check or using a forged contract. The penalties for uttering forgery can be severe and may align with those for forgery itself, depending on the value of the instrument involved. If the value is less than $500, lesser penalties may apply. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*