Cincinnati Check Fraud Attorney

Accused of Passing a Bad Check in Cincinnati? Don’t Face It Alone.

Writing a check that bounces—even by accident can have serious legal consequences in Ohio. Passing a bad check is a criminal theft offense that can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the amount and circumstances.

You might be shocked to learn that even a check written for food, rent, or utilities could land you in court if it’s not honored, and intent doesn’t always matter as much as you think. Whether you were struggling financially, unaware of your balance, or made an honest mistake, you could still face jail time and a permanent criminal record.

At Luftman, Heck & Associates, our Cincinnati criminal defense lawyers know how prosecutors handle these cases and how to build strong, fact-based defenses to avoid the harshest outcomes. Call (513) 338-1890 for a free and confidential case evaluation with an experienced check fraud attorney.

What Is Considered Passing a Bad Check in Ohio?

According to the Ohio Revised Code (ORC 2913.11), a person can be charged with passing a bad check if they:

• Knew there weren’t sufficient funds in their account at the time the check was written
• Used an account that doesn’t exist or was closed
• Opened an account using false or fraudulent information
• Failed to pay the original amount owed within 10 days after receiving notice of nonpayment
• Were notified that the check bounced within 30 days of issuance or agreed deposit

Even if you didn’t intend to defraud someone, simply writing a check that isn’t honored—and not taking immediate steps to resolve it—can lead to criminal prosecution.

Penalties for Passing Bad Checks in Ohio

The penalty for passing a bad check is based primarily on the amount of the check and whether you’ve written checks to one or multiple recipients.

Misdemeanor Bad Check Charges

• Up to $500: First-Degree Misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000

Felony Bad Check Charges

• $500–$5,000 to one person/business: Fifth-Degree Felony
  6 to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500
• $1,000–$5,000 to multiple people: Fifth-Degree Felony
  6 to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500
• $5,000–$100,000: Fourth-Degree Felony
  6 to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000

Felony convictions can result in prison time, financial hardship, and damage to your record and reputation permanently. You may also face civil lawsuits from those harmed by the bad check and the criminal case.

Take Bad Check Charges Seriously

Bad check charges in Ohio are taken seriously, even for first-time offenders. A conviction can lead to more than fines or jail—it may result in a permanent criminal record, limit job opportunities (especially in finance-related fields), affect housing and loan eligibility, and impact custody or immigration matters. Despite how clear the evidence may seem, viable defenses exist, so don’t face these charges without legal guidance.

Defending Against Ohio Passing Bad Check Charges

Every case is unique, and there may be valid reasons a check was returned that don’t amount to criminal conduct. Possible defenses include:

• Lack of Knowledge – You didn’t know the account lacked sufficient funds or believed a deposit would clear in time.
• Bank Error or Miscommunication – The problem may have resulted from a delay or error by your financial institution.
• Fraud by Another Party – Someone else may have gained access to your account and written the check in your name.
• Mental Incapacity or Intoxication – You were not mentally capable of understanding the consequences at the time.
• Good Character or Lack of Intent to Defraud – Supporting evidence that this was out of character can be powerful in court or during negotiations.
• Temporary Extension or Agreement – You believed there was an arrangement with your bank or the recipient for a delayed deposit.

We’ll analyze the facts, gather supporting documents, and develop a tailored strategy to push for dismissal, reduction, or alternative resolutions.

How a Cincinnati Check Fraud Lawyer Can Help

A Cincinnati check fraud lawyer can review your financial records, challenge claims of intent, and identify legal issues that may lead to reduced or dismissed charges. At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we present the whole picture, whether it involves financial hardship, bank errors, or honest mistakes, and work to protect your record, avoid jail, and resolve the case as favorably as possible.

Accused of Check Fraud? Contact LHA Today.

Don’t let a single financial misstep define your future. If you’re facing charges for passing a bad check, get the experienced legal help you need to resolve the issue and protect your record. Rest assured, because the Cincinnati Criminal Defense team is here for you. Get the justice that you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (513) 338-1890 or email us at advice@cincinnaticriminalattorney.com.