Forgery
Falsely making, altering, forging, or counterfeiting a covered writing with intent to injure or defraud.
Florida Statute
§ 831.01
Forgery
Verified against the 2026 Florida Statutes: September 13, 2026
Quick Summary
Forgery focuses on creating or altering a false covered document with fraudulent intent; passing it as genuine is a separate offense.
Elements of the Offense
Elements of the Offense
Elements marked AND are cumulative. Elements marked OR identify statutory alternatives; one applicable alternative must be established when that theory is charged. Conditional elements apply only to the identified statutory track.
- Element 1AND — Required
The State must prove all of the following
The defendant falsely made, altered, forged, or counterfeited a writing covered by F.S. § 831.01.
Plain language: The defendant created or changed a covered document so it was false.
- Element 2AND — Required
The State must prove all of the following
The defendant intended to injure or defraud a person or firm.
Plain language: The defendant acted with an intent to cause loss or deception.
Jury Instructions
Jury Instructions
Instruction 17.1
Forgery
Florida Standard Jury Instruction for F.S. § 831.01.
View Official InstructionVerified against the official instruction source: September 13, 2026
Important Definitions
Important Definitions
Covered writing
Section 831.01 lists covered records and writings, including public records, deeds, wills, bonds, policies, bills of lading, bills of exchange, promissory notes, receipts, and other listed instruments.
Additional Notes
Additional Notes
Quick Reference
Forgery is a third-degree felony under § 831.01. Distinguish making or altering the false item from uttering or passing it as true under § 831.02.