Passing Bad Checks/Check Fraud

Passing a Bad Check is a common criminal offense in Ohio. It may be a simple mistake of not having sufficient funds in a checking account to cover a check, or failing to pay for a bounced check upon being notified the check bounced. More serious cases may involve a bad check written, knowing that check would bounce or using false information to issue a bad check. Ohio’s Passing Bad Check law (O.R.C. 2913.11) applies to fraudulent electronic transfers and debit cards that are dishonored. Depending on the amount of money involved, these charges can range from a misdemeanor of the first degree, or Felony fifth degree and up through Felony first degree.

Crime of Dishonesty/Breach of Trust

Passing Bad Check charges are often considered a crime of dishonesty or breach of trust. Depending on the circumstances, it may be considered a crime of moral turpitude. In other words, if you have a conviction for this crime, you may be looked upon by employers or businesses as untrustworthy.

Sealing a Check Fraud Conviction

A criminal record for Passing Bad Checks will certainly affect a person’s ability to find a job and keep a job. A conviction may also eliminate education opportunities, obtaining an apartment, obtaining a professional license, or even obtaining a loan. Expungement and sealing will cause the criminal records to be removed from public access and all index references to the case deleted. Although some limitations apply, upon issuance of an Expungement order, the proceedings in the case shall be considered not to have occurred.

We’ve Helped Others With Check Fraud Convictions

In a recent case, a client hired us to expunge and seal multiple misdemeanor and felony convictions for Passing Bad Checks, and some other criminal charges. They had several convictions in different Ohio courts. These types of cases are difficult. Prosecutors regularly file objections to multiple convictions and judges are reluctant to grant expungements because they view a person as not being rehabilitated from their crimes. Regardless, we accepted the case involving 3 felony and 3 misdemeanor Passing Bad Check Charges; plus other charges. We were able to use new sections of the Ohio Expungement Statute from Senate Bill 66 to argue that our client was legally eligible for expungement. We thoroughly prepared our client for court and presented evidence that demonstrated that they had moved past their mistakes and were a contributing member of the community. After expungement hearings in each court, all our client’s criminal records were expunged and sealed. Our client was thrilled at having a second chance in life and now they have many new opportunities available to them.

Expungement in all 88 Ohio Counties

Put the past behind you. We can help you get a second chance. Our law firm has been in business since 1988, and we know the laws related to Ohio expungement and sealing. Take our on-line free expungement consultation today to determine if you are eligible.