2013 Maryland Code
CRIMINAL LAW
§ 8-601 - Counterfeiting of private instruments and documents

§8-601.

(a) A person, with intent to defraud another, may not counterfeit, cause to be counterfeited, or willingly aid or assist in counterfeiting any:

(1) bond;

(2) check;

(3) deed;

(4) draft;

(5) endorsement or assignment of a bond, draft, check, or promissory note;

(6) entry in an account book or ledger;

(7) letter of credit;

(8) negotiable instrument;

(9) power of attorney;

(10) promissory note;

(11) release or discharge for money or property;

(12) title to a motor vehicle;

(13) waiver or release of mechanics’ lien; or

(14) will or codicil.

(b) A person may not knowingly, willfully, and with fraudulent intent possess a counterfeit of any of the items listed in subsection (a) of this section.

(c) (1) A person who violates subsection (a) of this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

(2) A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the prosecution of an alleged violation of this section or for an alleged violation of a crime based on an act that establishes a violation of this section may be commenced in any county in which:

(1) an element of the crime occurred;

(2) the deed or other alleged counterfeit instrument is recorded in the county land records, filed with the clerk of the circuit court, or filed with the register of wills;

(3) the victim resides; or

(4) if the victim is not an individual, the victim conducts business.