Penal Code section 471

Every person who, with intent to defraud another, makes, forges, or alters any entry in any book of records, or any instrument purporting to be any record or return specified in Section 470, is guilty of forgery.

Source: Section 471, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=471. (updated Jan. 1, 2003; accessed Sep. 29, 2025).

470
470a
470b
471
471.5
472
473
474
475
476
476a
477
478
479
480
481
481.1
482
483
483.5

Up to date

Verified:
Sep. 29, 2025

§ 471's source at ca.gov

Stay Connected

Join thousands of people who receive monthly site updates.

Get Legal Help

The State Bar of California runs a service for finding an attorney in good standing. Initial consultations are usually free or discounted: Certified Lawyer Referral Services Directory

Committed to Public Service

We will always provide free access to the current law. In addition, we provide special support for non-profit, educational, and government users. Through social entrepreneurship, we’re lowering the cost of legal services and increasing citizen access.

Navigate

California:	Codes
Colorado:	C.R.S.
Florida:	Statutes
Nevada:	NRS
New York:	Laws
Oregon:	OAR, ORS
Texas:	Statutes
World:	Rome Statute, International Dictionary

Location: https://california.public.law/codes/penal_code_section_471

Original Source: Section 471, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=471. (last accessed May 12, 2025).