Legal Definitions - raising an instrument

Definition: Raising an instrument refers to the fraudulent alteration of a negotiable instrument, such as a check, to increase the amount payable. This is done without the knowledge or consent of the issuer.

Example: If someone receives a check for $100 and alters it to read $1,000, they have raised the instrument. This is illegal and considered an act of forgery.

The act of raising an instrument is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges. It is important to protect your financial documents and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.