Writing Bad Checks in Arizona
Did you know that bouncing a check in Arizona can be a crime?
According to Arizona law, a person can be charged with issuing a bad check “if the person issues or passes a check knowing that the person does not have sufficient funds in or on deposit with the bank, or other drawee, for the payment in full of the check– as well as all other checks outstanding at the time of issuance.”
Issuing a bad check is typically a misdemeanor offense. For checks greater than $5,000, however, it is a felony offense.
This charge can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to get a job or housing. Therefore, it is important to get an experienced attorney fighting for you.
Possible Defense Strategies in Cases Involving Issuing Bad Checks
At Tait & Hall, our Arizona criminal defense attorneys are knowledgeable in all the possible defenses for charges relating to writing bad checks or other theft or financial offenses.
Arizona law provides that it is a defense if any of the following occur:
- The payee or holder knows or has been expressly notified before the drawing of the check or has reason to believe that the drawer did not have on deposit or to the drawer’s credit with the drawee sufficient funds to ensure payment on its presentation.
- The check is post-dated, and sufficient funds are on deposit with the drawee on such later date for the payment in full of the check.
- Insufficiency of funds results from an adjustment to the person’s account by the credit institution without notice to the person.
Arizona Criminal Defense and Financial Crimes Lawyers
Helping You Avoid a Conviction
If you face accusations of issuing a bad check, please contact the attorneys at Tait & Hall. We are here to help you avoid a conviction for what was likely a simple error.
Call our Phoenix office at (480) 405-6767 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.