# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 8. Fraud and Related Crimes

### Subtitle 6. Counterfeiting and Related Crimes

#### Section 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) lease of real property;

  (8) letter of credit;

  (9) negotiable instrument;

  (10) power of attorney;

  (11) promissory note;

  (12) release or discharge for money or property;

  (13) rental agreement relating to real property;

  (14) title to a motor vehicle;

  (15) waiver or release of mechanics' lien; or

  (16) 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.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)