Check fraud is a Class 6 felony that involves getting someone else’s signature in order to falsify it. The consequences for cheque fraud in Virginia are severe. When you use a bad cheque when you don’t have enough money, you’re committing theft, a Class 1 misdemeanour that can be elevated to a Class 6 felony. A Class 6 felony is punishable by imprisonment for no less than one year and no more than five years, as well as a fine of no more than $2,500. A Class 1 misdemeanor is punishable by up to 12 months in prison and a punishment of up to $2,500 in fines. If you have any questions about penalties, contact a skilled Virginia Cheque Fraud Attorney.
Typical Cases
Writing a check with insufficient funds occurs when a person pays bills and does not have enough money in the bank, but they continue to write checks. This could result in a case of cheque fraud. Forging someone else’s signature does occur, but it is less common than the example described above. As a result, the lawmakers, who wrote the Virginia code, altered the penalty accordingly. If a person has additional questions about common scenarios and consequences for cheque fraud in Virginia, they should consult with a lawyer.
An Investigation Is Being Conducted For Cheque Fraud
A person should be on the lookout for signs that they are being investigated for cheque fraud. Frequently, they will be notified by an officer. Someone else may approach them and introduce themselves as police enforcement, requesting a statement. They may even be requested to take a polygraph test. In most circumstances, it will be evident. The investigation is rarely kept secret, but there are times when they need someone to make a statement. A person should contact an attorney to avoid Virginia cheque fraud penalties if he/she suspects they are being investigated.
Getting in Touch with a Virginia Fraud Attorney
These are quite significant charges. Whether a person is charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor for writing a cheque with insufficient amounts or a more serious offence for forging someone else’s signature, they will need representation. A person may risk active jail time as well as a substantial fine. As a result, a person should not delay in retaining legal counsel to represent them on these allegations.
There is also the label of an honest crime or a moral turpitude crime. This may preclude them from future opportunities, such as job offers. There is a societal stigma associated with committing an honest crime. Someone should be present to assist in preventing this from happening. This is conceivable, particularly if it is the person’s first charge. Even if there is enough evidence to convict them, there are numerous outcomes in cheque fraud trials. If you wish to avoid Virginia cheque fraud fines and defend your freedoms, you should consult a local, professional lawyer right once.
