CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Bad Checks

The Seriousness of Writing Bad Checks and the Consequences of Doing So in Los Angeles

Writing a bad check can have serious consequences, and it is imperative that you do everything in your power to avoid doing so. When you end up writing a bad check, it essentially means that the bank did not honor the check which, in turn, translates into you not paying the intended recipient. This causes a ripple effect that results in additional charges from both the recipient and the bank. You may also end up facing criminal charges in the State of California. If you find yourself in this situation, it is crucial that you contact a Los Angeles criminal law attorney right away.

When Writing a Bad Check Can Lead to a Criminal Offense

It is understandable that people can make mistakes and overdraft their bank account accidentally. However, when you knowingly write a bad check, that is an entirely different matter altogether. Writing a check with insufficient funds in your account is a criminal act. If you put an intentional “stop payment” on a check shortly after writing it and doing so in a fraudulent manner, will also lead to criminal charges. Writing a check on a closed bank account is blatantly illegal. Furthermore, forgery and writing fake checks are criminal offenses.

Recovery and Civil Laws for Writing Bad Checks

When a bad check situation occurs, you may end up defending yourself in both criminal and civil court. The person who receives the bad check can also sue you for up to three times the amount of the bad check, which could amount to a total of $1,500. The receiver of the check may also have to pay for court fees and expenses, and you may find yourself facing criminal charges as well. Therefore, avoiding writing bad checks should always be your top priority.

Penalties for Writing Bad Checks in Los Angeles

Writing bad checks in Los Angeles is a grave offense and comes with severe penalties. If the bad check value is $200 or less, you could face jail time of up to one year. Whereas, larger checks may land you in jail for longer durations. Besides imprisonment, you may incur massive fines as well. A criminal record may also hinder your life significantly, making it difficult for you to secure employment or find housing. Your family and friends may judge you harshly, and the bank will inevitably report your check-writing discrepancy, placing it in the ChexSystems computer system, which will prevent you from opening a bank account for many years.

How an Attorney Can Help

If you have been accused of writing bad checks in Los Angeles, you need an experienced criminal law attorney to guide you through the entire process. A competent attorney can assist in various ways, including taking detailed notes during consultations, trying to prove your innocence, and negotiating for leniency in your penalty. Should you receive a conviction, an attorney can still help you by appealing for a less severe sentence on your behalf. There is nothing you need to fear when you have a reputable legal team in your corner.

Contact Us Today

Don’t leave things to chance. If you have been accused of writing bad checks in Los Angeles, we can help you mount a powerful defense to protect your rights and your freedom. Contact our legal team today, and let’s begin working on your defense strategy. During the consultation, which usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, you will have the chance to get to know your attorney better while gaining clarity regarding your situation. Be proactive, and let us help you maneuver the complexities of the legal system.