According to California Penal Code 115, it is illegal to file, register, or record a false or forged document with a California public office. Individuals can be charged with forgery if they intentionally try to defraud other people.PC 470 covers several different acts. Penal Code 115 PC makes it a crime knowingly to file, register, or record a false or forged document in any public office within the state. The penalties for forgery vary depending on the case's facts. But forgery is charged as a felony in most cases. California law Cal. Pen. 470 penalizes forgery, but also requires there to be an intent to defraud. Under Penal Code 470, forgery is a wobbler offense. You can face misdemeanor or felony charges.