What Is Check Fraud in New Jersey?

Check fraud is a serious offense in the state of New Jersey. To learn more, continue reading and give our skilled Bergen County check fraud attorneys a call today.

What is check fraud in New Jersey?

While check fraud is often conducted intentionally, there are many cases where it happens as a result of 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 hire the services of a dedicated legal representative. It is important to recognize that in some instances, you may face further penalties related to check fraud, including forgery, theft by deception, identity theft, and more.

What are the criminal consequences of check fraud in New Jersey?

If you were charged with check fraud in the state of New Jersey, you can expect to face severe consequences. These offenses are typically handled either in municipal or Superior Court, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. However, usually, 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 includes the following:

  • 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

What is elderly check fraud?

Usually, check fraud cases are fairly broad and often involve the elderly, who may not comprehend why they are facing such charges. For instance, 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 misconceptions 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 reach out to our dedicated legal team to learn more. We are on your side.

Contact our Firm

Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector for an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who will aggressively fight for you. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than the best possible legal representation.