What does it mean if a document has been forged?

When a document is said to be forged, it typically refers to the act of creating or altering that document with the intent to deceive another party. This usually involves the unauthorized signing of someone else's name or falsifying information on the document to make it appear legitimate when it is not. The unlawful intent is crucial because it signifies that the purpose behind the forgery is to mislead or manipulate for personal gain, which constitutes a serious legal offense.

In this context, the notion revolves around the intention behind the creation of the document. Unlike a document simply having no legal authority or being modified for clarity—both of which do not inherently involve deceit—the defining characteristic of a forged document is the conscious effort to mislead. Thus, the answer correctly highlights the deceitful nature of forgery, establishing it as distinct from other types of document issues or modifications.