Check Fraud

Check fraud has unfortunately become increasingly prevalent in today’s society. It involves individuals attempting to obtain funds from bank accounts or make purchases using counterfeit or fraudulent checks.

There are four primary types of check fraud: forgery, paper hanging, check kiting, and counterfeiting and alteration. While it may seem tempting, engaging in such activities can lead to profound regret in the future.

Knowingly forging someone else’s signature on a check without their permission is considered federal check fraud and can result in severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines. If you find yourself facing such charges, it is crucial to seek a strong and aggressive defense. That is where our Pittsburgh check fraud lawyers at Logue Law Group can support you. Our team of skilled criminal defense lawyers will leave no stone unturned in helping you achieve a successful outcome.

What is Federal Check Fraud?

 It encompasses intentionally using counterfeit or forged checks to obtain services or property without the intent to pay for them. This includes forging a check, altering the amount, or signing with another person’s name without their consent. In a federal check fraud case, the prosecution must prove that you possessed the intention to defraud by using a counterfeit or forged check.

The act of depositing a counterfeit or forged check into a bank account serves as evidence in court that you intended to misrepresent and defraud the bank. In fact, one type of check fraud can be connected to other criminal activities, such as check kiting. This involves writing a check from one account while knowing that you lack the funds to cover it, then depositing the check into another bank account. If charged with federal check fraud, you may face extensive prison time, hefty fines, and the forfeiture of property. This highlights the urgency of consulting a check fraud attorney in Pittsburgh as soon as possible.

Check fraud charges span a range of classifications, from misdemeanors to felonies. The penalties can vary from community service to several years behind bars.

Federal vs. State

The federal court system is a complex entity, differing from the Pittsburgh court system both in procedures and sentencing guidelines for fraud cases. Federal prosecutors benefit from extensive resources and thorough investigations carried out by federal agents, setting them apart from their counterparts in Pittsburgh. If convicted of a federal crime, the consequences are naturally more severe. However, with the guidance of our Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer, all your worries can be put to rest.

Fortunately, defenses are available to those accused of fraud. As the prosecutor needs to prove intent to defraud, an experienced Pittsburgh DUI attorney can present evidence that the alleged offender believed they had sufficient funds to cover the check. Depending on the circumstances, it could be argued that the individual was mistaken for someone else, was entrapped, or that there is inadequate evidence for a conviction.

Ways in Which a Pittsburgh Check Fraud Attorney Can Help

When faced with charges of federal check fraud, you will inevitably confront a determined prosecutor and stringent laws. Our Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer can assist you in exploring all your options and achieving the best possible outcome for your situation.

For a complimentary initial consultation with a skilled check fraud lawyer in the Pittsburgh area, reach out to us online or call 844.PITT.DUI.