Austin Tampering with Governmental Record Attorney Jason Trumpler

Tampering with Government Record Lawyer in Austin Texas

Contact Us Today At 512-457-5200

It is a crime in the State of Texas to alter an official government record. The Texas Penal Code purposefully defines this charge broadly so that it may apply to many situations. Examples of acts that would constitute tampering with a governmental record include:

• Making a false entry into or alteration of a document issued by the government.
• Knowingly using a government-issued document with knowledge that it is false while trying to pass it off as being genuine.
• Intentionally destroying or impairing the verity, legibility, or availability of a government record.
• Possessing or selling a fake government document with the intent that you can use unlawfully.

If the State convicts you of tampering with a government record, the consequences can be severe. Your ability to rent a home or obtain employment can be affected. Many landlords and employers do not want to associate with individuals convicted of crimes of moral turpitude.

If the State has accused of tampering with a government record, hiring an experienced attorney may help your chances of getting your charge reduced or dismissed. Jason Trumpler has 20-years of experience handling criminal cases. Our priority is to keep a conviction off of your record. Contact our office today at 512-457-5200.

Potential Consequences

Typically, tampering with a government record is a Class A Misdemeanor. A Class A Misdemeanor may be punishable by:

• Up to 1-year in the County Jail; and,
• Fine Up to $4,000.

However, if the State alleges that you tampered with a government record with the intent to either defraud or harm someone, the charge may be increased to a State Jail Felony. The punishment range for a State Jail Felony conviction is:

• Six months to Two Years in the State Jail; and,
• Fine Up to $10,000.

If the State has accused you of tampering with a school record, report, or assessment meant for the TEA, you may be charged with a 3rd Degree Felony. Tampering with a government document related to criminal proceedings (such as a urinalysis report) or a search warrant is also a 3rd Degree Felony. The punishment range for a 3rd Degree Felony is:

• Two to Ten Years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institutional Division; and,
• Fine Up to $10,000.