WHAT HAPPENS IF I PASS A BAD CHECK IN MISSOURI?

BAD CHECK

Writing a check you can’t cover might seem like a simple mistake, but in Missouri, it can lead to serious criminal charges. Under Missouri law, knowingly writing or passing a bad check can result in misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the amount and circumstances.

If you’ve been charged or are under investigation for passing bad checks in Missouri, it’s critical to understand your rights and consult with an experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney immediately.

At KC Defense Counsel, our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers have helped hundreds of clients successfully fight fraud-related charges like passing bad checks. Here’s what you need to know.

UNDERSTANDING MISSOURI’S BAD CHECK PASSING LAWS

According to Missouri Revised Statutes Section 570.120, it is illegal to issue or pass a check when you know your account doesn’t have sufficient funds and you intend to defraud the person or business receiving the check. The law applies whether the check was written for groceries, rent, or services and whether the check bounced due to closed accounts or insufficient funds.

While not every bounced check is criminal, the key element in these cases is intent. Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly wrote a bad check with the intent to defraud. If you simply made an honest mistake or were unaware of a banking issue, that could be a valid defense.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR PASSING BAD CHECKS IN MISSOURI?

The consequences for passing a bad check in Missouri depend largely on the amount of the check:

  • Less than $750: Misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,000.
  • $750 or more: Class E felony, punishable by up to four years in prison and significant fines.

In some cases, repeated offenses or additional fraudulent behavior can lead to enhanced penalties and more severe consequences.

POSSIBLE DEFENSES FOR PASSING BAD CHECKS

If you’ve been accused of passing a bad check, don’t assume you’re out of options. A skilled Kansas City defense attorney may be able to build a strong case on your behalf. Common defenses include:

  • Lack of intent to defraud
  • Payment was made shortly after notice
  • The check was post-dated with agreement
  • Bank error or account mix-up
  • Improper notice given by the payee

Every case is different. That’s why working with an experienced criminal lawyer is so important.

WHY YOU NEED A TRUSTWORTHY MISSOURI CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Bad check cases often move fast. You may receive a letter demanding repayment or a court summons, both of which can lead to criminal prosecution if ignored. The stakes are high, and your future, reputation, and finances could all be at risk.

At KC Defense Counsel, we understand how Missouri courts handle fraud and check-related offenses. We work quickly to investigate the charges, identify weak points in the prosecution’s case, and fight for reduced penalties or dismissal whenever possible.

CHARGED WITH PASSING BAD CHECKS IN MISSOURI? CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL

If you’ve been charged with passing a bad check in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, don’t wait. A conviction can follow you for years. Let us fight for your freedom, your record, and your peace of mind.

Call KC Defense Counsel today and schedule a free case evaluation with an affordable Kansas City criminal defense attorney. Let us help begin building your defense.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri can be of assistance.

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