Colorado § 18-8-406 - Issuing a false certificate.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-406 — Issuing a false certificate., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-8-406. Issuing a false certificate.
A person commits a class 6 felony, if, being a public servant authorized by law to make and issue official certificates or other official written instruments, he makes and issues such an instrument containing a statement which he knows to be false.
Source: L. 71: R&RE, p. 462, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 40-8-406. L. 89: Entire section amended, p. 840, § 84, effective July 1.
ANNOTATION
The language "authorized by law" is not unconstitutionally vague. People v. Buckallew, 848 P.2d 904 (Colo. 1993).
The statute is not overbroad where defendant has failed to show that it infringes any fundamental freedom, and it is "self-evident" that the statute is reasonably related to the legitimate governmental interest in protecting the public from the issuance of false documents by public officials. People v. Buckallew, 848 P.2d 904 (Colo. 1993).
The county sheriff falls within the ambit of the statute where it is clear that a sheriff cannot fully perform his functions without the implied power to make official certificates. People v. Buckallew, 848 P.2d 904 (Colo. 1993).
Indictment need not set forth the source of county sheriff's authority to issue official certificates as long as the duty to refrain from engaging in the prohibited conduct is clear from the count. The indictment clearly stated defendant sheriff was alleged to have breached the duty not to make and issue false official certificates. People v. Buckallew, 848 P.2d 904 (Colo. 1993).
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-8-406
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-406 cover?
Section 18-8-406 ("Issuing a false certificate.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 18-8-406?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-406" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 18-8-406 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.