Yes. Penal Code section 115 makes it a felony to knowingly procure or offer a false or forged instrument for filing, registration, or recording in a public office when the genuine instrument might lawfully be filed, registered, or recorded. The statutory elements do not expressly require a completed property transfer or a dollar loss; that is an inference from the section’s text, not a rule that every related charge is harm-free.

What the filing allegation requires

A false deed allegation is not established merely because a document is disputed or contains an error. The prosecution must prove the knowing false-or-forged-instrument and public filing, registration, or recording conditions in section 115(a). A genuine form of the instrument must be one that might lawfully be filed, registered, or recorded. A false signature charge under a different statute may present different elements; filing or offering a recordable instrument is the specific conduct addressed here (Penal Code section 115).

The records that can clarify the allegation include the exact deed or instrument, every version and signature page, recorder or filing receipts, communications about its preparation, and records showing who submitted or offered it and what they knew. If the deed or authority to submit it is disputed, preserve those records so counsel can assess the specific filing allegation.

A later order voiding an instrument is not automatic

The same section describes a separate, conditional procedure after a qualifying conviction or a dismissal following a Harvey waiver. The prosecutor may move for an order declaring the instrument void from the outset. Interested parties must receive notice and an opportunity to be heard, and the court may decline the request where property rights or a related civil case make that appropriate (Penal Code section 115(e)–(f)). A criminal filing allegation by itself does not automatically erase a deed or settle title.

If you have received notice of an investigation or charge, keep the original documents and filing records intact and have counsel compare the accusation with the specific instrument and its recordability. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can review the criminal allegation and its documents with you. Call (800) 755-5174, or read the firm’s white-collar crime overview.