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South Dakota criminal charge

Possessing a forged instrument in South Dakota

Class 6 FelonyCurrent through 2026 South Dakota legislative session

Possessing a forged instrument is a Class 6 Felony under South Dakota criminal law, defined by SDCL § 22-39-38. As a Class 6 Felony, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range South Dakota sets for that offense class. South Dakota sorts criminal offenses into felonies, misdemeanors, and petty offenses, each carrying its own penalty range.

Defined by SDCL § 22-39-38.

What is the penalty for possessing a forged instrument in South Dakota?

Penalties for Possessing a forged instrument
PenaltyRangeBasisAuthority
Jail / prisonup to 2 years (no statutory minimum)discretionarySDCL § 22-6-1
Fineup to $4,000 (no statutory minimum)discretionarySDCL § 22-6-1

Applies to current.

Common questions about possessing a forged instrument in South Dakota

Is possessing a forged instrument a felony or a misdemeanor in South Dakota?

Possessing a forged instrument is a Class 6 Felony in South Dakota under SDCL § 22-39-38.

What are the penalties for possessing a forged instrument in South Dakota?

As a Class 6 Felony, possessing a forged instrument carries up to 2 years (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $4,000 (no mandatory minimum) under SDCL § 22-6-1 (current).

Which South Dakota statute covers possessing a forged instrument?

Possessing a forged instrument is governed by SDCL § 22-39-38 (Possessing a forged instrument--Knowledge--Intent--Felony).

This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.