Am I in legal trouble to lying to the passport office?

Question

My friend forged my signature for a passport application. They called to confirm that I signed it and I said yes.  But they called back stating they didn't believe me because the signatures and story of where it was signed didn't line up. What do I do? Am I in legal trouble to lying to the passport office?

Eric Schurman · Answer

Yes.

Jules N. Fiani · Answer

Yes, hire a lawyer.

Ernest Biando · Answer

Yes-retain an attorney.

Roianne Houlton Conner · Answer

This is called fraud and yes you will get in trouble.

Jacob P. Sartz · Answer

Yes, you could face some trouble potentially.   However, it depends on whether the office files a police report and what the  police determine from their initial investigation. This is the type of issue  that could get federal authorities involved. Especially after "9/11," any sort  of allegation that a person is attempting to alter or provide false information  to obtain a passport is taken very seriously.   I'd recommend you retain an attorney to assist you with this matter. What you  say and do related to this incident could be used against you if ultimately, you  are charged with a criminal offense.

Michael Garber · Answer

Maybe. I'm sure your passport application says it's perjury to give false information to get a passport.

Gregory Casale · Answer

Hire an attorney. Passports are extremely important documents and falsifying information on them will not be taken lightly. I would strongly advise you to hire an attorney and not post any more information about what you did or didn't do online. I would also advise you not to speak to anyone at all about this until you hire an attorney and then refer all requests for information to your attorney. Assert your right here to remain silent!

Steven D. Dunnings · Answer

Yes, it's called fraud .

Craig Elhart · Answer

This would be a federal matter and yes, you could be in trouble for lying while trying to obtain a passport.

Mark Cogan · Answer

Lying to a Federal agent is a crime. I suggest you and your friend retain legal counsel immediately.

Jared Altman · Answer

You might be. But I think it more likely that you just won't get a passport.

Terry Nelson · Answer

The term perjury comes to mind, a federal criminal offense in this case. How likely it is to happen, I cant guess.  If you can clear this up with honesty and contrition, you may avoid charges.  I suggest you consider hiring an attorney to assist you.  Most prosecutors will happily tell you that 95% of people convict themselves by trying to be 'helpful and cooperative', either during initial contact, questioning, interview or interrogation.

Stephen Freeborn · Answer

You very well could be. You do not say whay someone else forged your signature.  You need to speak with an attorney who can review the facts in detail.  At minimum, you may have compromised your ability to obtain a passport.

Eric Sterkenburg · Answer

Yes you are in trouble for lying about signing the passport. What you did can be filed as a felony or a misdemeanor in state court or federal court. You need an attorney.

Michael Palumbo · Answer

You are in deep trouble and you really need to retain counsel asap.

Carina Laguzzi · Answer

Until you are arrested, there is not much you can do.  That is, if you are arrested.  This is very serious and if you are called again, you should not answer any more questions until you consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Gary Moore · Answer

You might be charged with lying to a federal officer and/or obstructing justice.

Terry W. Rose · Answer

Yes.  It is a federal offense to lie to a federal agent.

Cynthia Henley · Answer

You definitely could be. You should talk with a lawyer before you talk with them any further. Contact someone who handles federal cases.

Joseph Dane · Answer

Given the heightened security nowadays, yes - you're potentially in trouble, as is your friend.  Since you're dealing with a passport, this is likely to be a federal crime.  They don't mess around.  You and your friend need to stop making statements that are only going to hurt you and instead sit down and discuss the situation face to face with a criminal defense attorney.   Best case scenario, they decline your application. Worst case, you are prosecuted for perjury, forgery or falsification of government documents.

Jeff Yeh · Answer

You will if you talk. You need an attorney to talk on your behalf, so stop making incriminating statements.

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Am I in legal trouble to lying to the passport office?

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