Check Fraud Attorneys in Glen Rock, NJ
The Law Office of Carl Spector receives several questions regarding passing bad checks. Check fraud is a very serious offense, not only in the state of New Jersey but across the country as well. If you have been charged with a check fraud or forgery offense, you must retain the services of an experienced defense attorney who can help you avoid an uncertain future. If convicted of check fraud, you will generally face very serious consequences, including jail time, overwhelming fines, and the permanent burdens of a criminal record. For quality legal representation when you need it most, contact The Law Office of Carl Spector today to discuss your case.
Check Fraud in New Jersey
While check fraud is oftentimes conducted intentionally, there are many instances in which it occurs due to a simple misunderstanding, landing someone who was trying to do the right thing in hot water. Whether you knowingly committed check fraud or simply made a mistake, you must retain strong legal representation to fight in your corner. You should note that in some cases, you may face additional penalties related to check fraud, including forgery, theft by deception, identity theft, and more.
Criminal Consequences of New Jersey Check Fraud
If you have been charged with check fraud in the state of New Jersey, you are facing very serious consequences. These offenses are handled either in municipal or Superior Court, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. However, oftentimes, cases that do end up in Superior Court are sent back down to the municipal court. The breakdown of penalties for writing a bad check is as follows:
- Writing a bad check for under $200 can result in up to 6 months in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000
- Writing a bad check between $200 and $1,000 is a fourth-degree offense, which can result in up to 18 months of imprisonment and/or fines of up to $10,000
- Writing a bad check between $1,000 and $75,000 is a third-degree offense, which can result in up to 5 years of imprisonment and/or fines of up to $15,000
- Writing a bad check valued at more than $75,000 is a second-degree offense that can result in up to 10 years of imprisonment and/or fines of up to $150,000
Elderly Check Fraud
Oftentimes, check fraud cases are quite broad and frequently involve the elderly, who may not understand why they are facing such charges. For example, sometimes home health caregivers who are in constant contact with the elderly will feel as though they are a member of the family. On occasion, the home healthcare aid will write legitimate checks for the elderly individual. However, there are often misunderstandings between the elderly person and their caregiver that may result in allegations of theft or coercion by additional members of the family. That is why if you or a loved one has been charged with check fraud or theft, you must speak with our experienced legal team to learn more about how we can help.
Contact a Bergen County Check Fraud Defense Attorney
The Law Office of Carl Spector recognizes that many instances of check fraud occur as a result of a simple miscommunication. However, when an individual is caught conducting check fraud intentionally, he or she will generally face even harsher penalties upon conviction. If you are facing charges for passing a bad check or any other type of bank fraud, you can count on the skilled legal team at The Law Office of Carl Spector to effectively represent your interests. Contact our office today to learn how we can assist you.