Worthless Checks
When an individual issues a check, he or she is implying that the account linked to the check has the necessary funds to cover the check. If the account does not have sufficient funds, the issuer of the check can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense.
St. Petersburg Worthless Check Lawyer
If you have been arrested for writing a worthless check, contact a St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney to discuss possible defenses and specific strategies that may exist in your case. Melinda Morris has the knowledge and experience necessary to provide you with a thorough defense.
Morris Law Firm, P.A. serves clients throughout Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa, Hillsborough, Pasco, Bradenton, Manatee, and Sarasota. Call Melinda Morris at (727) 592-5885 to discuss your, or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.
Overview on Worthless Checks in Florida
- Definition of Writing a Worthless Check
- Defenses to Writing a Hot Check
- Penalties for Writing a Bad Check
- Defending Those Accused of Writing Bad Checks in Pinellas County
Definition of Writing a Worthless Check
According to Section 832.05 of the Florida Statutes an individual can be charged with a criminal offense if they make, issue, use, or deliver a check, with knowledge that the there are insufficient funds in the account linked to the check.
Defenses to Writing a Hot Check
One of the most commonly used defenses to writing a hot check is the individual did not know the check would bounce due to an honest miscalculation of the account balance.
Another potential defense to this crime is that the check was postdated and was not supposed to be cashed until a certain date. This could show that the individual who the check was given to knew that the check would bounce if cashed before the date marked on the check.
Penalties for Writing a Bad Check
In St. Petersburg, an individual who writes a worthless check can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, and sentenced to up to a year in jail, and/or be ordered to pay a fine of up to $1,000.
If the value of the check was over $150, the individual can face a third-degree felony charge, which is punishable by up to five years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Defending Those Accused of Writing Bad Checks in Pinellas County
If you have been charged with a crime for allegedly writing hot checks, it is important to understand your legal options. Melinda Morris is a viable attorney who serves individual charged with theft crimes in St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, Tampa Bay, and the surrounding areas.
Contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. at (727) 592-5885 for more information on what we can do to help you fight the allegations against you. As a former prosecutor, Melinda Morris understands the charges you face and tactics often used by the prosecution. Call her today at (727) 592-5885 for a free consultation.
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