Des Moines, IA asked in Animal / Dog Law, Federal Crimes and Criminal Law for Iowa

Q: Is it legal to buy a fake ID and customise it for my dog as a joke? i think its funny but can i carry it in my wallet?

I know falsifying government documents is illegal but it's going to be like a picture of a dog weighing 9 pounds height 8 inches and all that. Dogs can't drive and obviously, a dog who was born in 2023 can't buy alcohol. So would it still be illegal if it is a joke? (the joke being that he can drive but yk... is a dog)

This would include buying a fake ID from wherever kids get them from.

And no I have not done this hence asking if its legal.

2 Lawyer Answers
Stephen Douglas Lombardi
Stephen Douglas Lombardi
Answered
  • West Des Moines, IA
  • Licensed in Iowa

A: Let me see if I understand your question. You want to know if it is legal to lie to a state or federal agency by filling out an application by lying about who the applicant is, providing false answers to those questions and providing a false signature. Is that right?

And you’ve admitted it on social media.

So far it’s not illegal.

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: Creating or possessing a fake ID, even for humorous purposes, is generally considered illegal in most jurisdictions, including Iowa. While the intention may be for a joke, the creation, purchase, or possession of fake identification documents can carry legal consequences, as it undermines the integrity of government-issued identification.

Even if the ID is meant to be humorous and not used for any fraudulent purposes, it may still be viewed as a violation of the law. Law enforcement and authorities may not always interpret such situations as jokes, and there could be potential legal consequences, including fines or other penalties.

It's advisable to find other, legal ways to express humor without engaging in activities that may lead to legal trouble. In this case, creating a fake ID for your dog, even as a joke, could have unintended legal consequences and is best avoided to stay within the bounds of the law.

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