A criminal accusation of fraud or writing bad checks is something you need to take very seriously. Known as white collar crimes, fraud, worthless checks, and identity theft can land you serious fines and prison sentences. If you are facing charges like these in Indiana courts, call us to discuss how we can help.
Offenses like these are often committed out of financial necessity and desperation. You may have made a hasty and impulsive decision at a time of hardship or financial stress. And now that you are charged with a crime, I know that your stress and anxiety levels are even worse.
A free consultation with an experienced Indiana defense attorney can help you understand what you are up against, and, most importantly, what you can do to defend yourself, fight back, and protect your future.
Whether you are prepared to admit a mistake and just want to manage the consequences and penalties, or if you are not guilty of the charges against you, we want to help you. We know how the Indiana criminal courts work and can work with you to fight for the best possible outcome, and insure that your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
So contact us today to speak with a defense attorney in Indiana who can help explain your options, and possible defenses to get this matter fixed as quickly as possible.
Indiana Check Deception – Laws & Penalties
Also referred to as worthless checks/bad checks, check deception is where you present a check to acquire money or other property knowing it won’t be honored by the bank or credit institution.
Generally this offense is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines reaching $5,000.
However if the value of the check is over $2,500 and the property acquired is a vehicle, then the charge is elevated to a Class D felony. Class D felonies carry a potential sentence of 6 months to 3 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000.
Ref: IC 35-43-5-5
Indiana Fraud Charge – Laws & Penalties
There are several ways you can commit credit card fraud under Indiana law and be charged criminally.
Generally credit card fraud is a Class D felony punishable by 6 months to 3 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000. You may be charged with this offense if you:
- Use a credit card knowing it was obtained illegally
- Use a credit card, knowing the card is forged, revoked or expired,
- Use a credit card issued to another person
- Represent yourself as the authorized holder of a credit card
- Sell a credit card
Ref: IC 35-43-5-4
Identity Deception (Theft/Fraud) -Laws & Penalties
Also referred to as identity theft or identity fraud, in Indiana identity deception is an offense taken very seriously by criminal court judges. You may be charged with this offense if you knowingly or intentionally obtain possess, transfer or use the identifying information of another person without their consent and to:
- Harm or defraud them
- Assume their identity, or
- Profess to be that other person
Some identity deception charges are related to employment and immigration status, so you may be facing immigration and deportation issues if that applies to you.
Typically a identity deception offense is considered a Class D felony and is punishable by 6 months to 3 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000.
Ref: IC 35-43-5-3.5
Free Legal Defense Consultation on Fraud and Related Offenses in Indiana
Fraud and related offenses like these are nothing to be taken lightly. You need an attorney who is willing to do what’s necessary to fight for you, and try to keep your record clean. Your rights are important to us. You are innocent until proven guilty under the criminal laws of Indiana and this nation.
Call for a consultation on your case and see exactly how we can help.