This post concludes and recaps my series on the handling of bad check cases in Phoenix, Arizona. I decided to write on this topic due to several misunderstandings I often see in regards to such matters. The goal of my last several posts has been to help area residents understand what to expect if they bounce a check to another. I cannot stress enough that one should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately if they find themselves charged for passing a check with insufficient funds.
I have addressed several topics over my last several posts. Subjects I have looked at included:
- Understanding Arizona’s bad check laws
- Defenses available to one charged with bouncing a bad check
- The possibility of resolving a bad check case through a plea deal
- Setting aside Arizona convictions for passing a bad check
Each of these are subjects which defendants should have a knowledge of. First, it is important to understand that when one bounces a check to a vendor then it is not simply a “private matter” between two parties. The vendor will have the option of pursuing criminal charges. Second, one can defend against the charges if they can show that the check was postdated or on other grounds. Third, If one does not have reason to defend the case then it may be possible to enter into a plea agreement which will result in a dismissal. Finally, even if one is convicted they can later set the conviction aside. In other words, there is always a step which can be taken on your behalf in such cases.
Arizona residents charged with passing a bad check should immediately contact a criminal defense attorney. Counsel will help you understand what options you have available as well as what your best course of action may be. If one chooses to go to Court without understanding the process, and unrepresented, then there is a possibility that they will end the case with a worse outcome than they would have otherwise received. Retaining a skilled lawyer can help to ensure the defendant’s future. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. In addition to Phoenix, we also represent defendants in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson and others throughout the state.