What is the sentence for a first-time forgery conviction?

In general, forgery is a felony under state and federal law. That means that a conviction is typically punished by incarceration for at least one year in prison and a substantial fine.

In some states, however, a forgery that results in a relatively small financial loss to the victim may be charged as a misdemeanor. Punishment for a misdemeanor conviction is usually a term in county jail for less than a year, and a fine that's less than one that would be imposed for a felony conviction. It is even possible, under unusual circumstances, for an offender to be given a suspended sentence, often involving some form of closely monitored community control.

Sentencing for forgery, like sentencing for any crime, depends on the individual circumstances of the case, such as the offender's intent and criminal history. 

Check here for state-specific information on forgery sentences,