OCEAN COUNTY CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS
Bad Checks & Check Fraud
The Law Offices of John F. Marshall is a criminal defense firm that has maintained a great reputation throughout New Jersey, particularly Ocean County. We have successfully represented clients charged with all kinds of theft charges, including Bad Checks and Check Fraud. Check fraud and Bad Checks carry heavy penalties, including a second degree criminal conviction. Our lawyers have almost 60 years of legal experience combined and possess the knowledge you need to successfully defend a charge of Bad Checks and Check Fraud. Our legal team is made up of former prosecutors across the State, including a former prosecutor, Thomas Campo, who practiced in 20 municipalities of Ocean County. Our firm consists of the most elite criminal defense attorneys who will dedicate themselves to providing you with the most effective defense strategy that will mitigate or eliminate the charges completely. We understand that an individual can be charged with Bad Checks or Check Fraud despite his or her innocence and we will work to have the charges dismissed. Please contact our office if you are facing a Bad Check or Check Fraud offense in Ocean County.
Bad Checks & Check Fraud in Ocean County
A person can be charged with a Bad Check offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-5 if he or she issues or passes a check or money order, knowing that it is invalid and will not be recognized by the drawee. There is a presumption of knowledge in the following circumstances: (1) when the actor had an account with the drawee at the time the check or money order was issued, and (2) when the drawee refused payment due to lack of funds or a closed account after the payee failed to make payment within a specified period of time after he or she was notified. The penalties vary depending on the value of the check or money order:
- If the check or money order is $75,000 or more, it is a crime of the second degree, carrying a penalty of 5-10 years in prison.
- If the check or money order is $1,000 or more but less than $75,000, it is a crime of the third degree, carrying a penalty of 1-5 years in prison.
- If the check or money order is $200 or more but less than $1,000, it is a crime of the fourth degree carrying a penalty of up to 18 months incarceration.
- If the check or money order is less than $200, it is a disorderly persons offense, carrying a penalty of up to 6 months jail time.
If you have been charged with a crime of Bad Checks or Check Fraud in Ocean County, you are facing substantial penalties. Do not let yourself be subject to a considerable amount of jail time and a criminal record. You should contact a lawyer who is familiar with the local courts and can understand your circumstances. Call us at 1-877-450-8301 for a FREE initial consultation.
