What is the penalty for preparing any false document with intent to deceive in a legal proceeding?

The penalty for preparing any false document with the intent to deceive in a legal proceeding is classified as a felony. This is primarily because the act of fabricating documents to mislead a court or legal entity undermines the integrity of the legal system. Such conduct is taken very seriously and carries significant legal consequences due to its potential to affect the outcomes of legal proceedings, falsely impact a judge's or jury's decision, and generally obstruct justice.

By designating this offense as a felony, the law emphasizes the severity of the wrongdoing and aims to deter individuals from engaging in deceptive practices in legal contexts. It reflects the system's commitment to maintaining honesty and transparency in judicial proceedings, which are foundational principles of the rule of law.

In contrast, other classifications like misdemeanors or infractions, which are generally less severe, do not adequately convey the seriousness of the crime. Thus, recognizing the act as a felony acknowledges the significant harm caused by such deceptive behavior in legal matters.