Cravens & Noll
Check Fraud Defense in Virginia
At Cravens & Noll, we understand that check fraud charges can be some of the most difficult and trying times in your life. We know the consequences are severe, and we know that you need help. Our Richmond check fraud attorneys focus on helping our clients by analyzing and advising clients charged with these serious crimes. We handle many different types of criminal defense cases, including check fraud.
Since Virginia poses such stiff penalties for forging and uttering, the standard of proof for the prosecutor is quite high. We have a high success rate of getting good results in check fraud cases, and we can tell very early whether or not the state has a strong case.
Forging and Uttering
One of the most common forms of check fraud involves forging. Virginia is unique in its criminal laws regulating forging, separating the crime into two separate and distinct crimes, forging and uttering. Forging involves altering the signature or other information with the intent to defraud. Uttering is the attempt to use the forged document, with knowledge that the check was forged.
- You do not have to commit one to commit the other: You can forge a check and not utter it, and you can utter a check that you did not forge.
- Each of these crimes can be a felony: Even if you were only indicted of one or the other, you will probably be charged with a felony.
- Conviction of both usually means conviction of two felonies: Since forging and uttering are considered distinct and separate crimes, if you're convicted of both, you're convicted of two distinct and separate felony crimes.
Facing Criminal Charges? Remain Silent!
If you have any police contact regarding your possible criminal involvement — an arrest, formal criminal charges, the police knocking on your door to just "ask you a few questions" — the best advice we can give you is be quiet! Exercise your right to remain silent, or your words will be used against you. If you must talk to someone, talk to a lawyer.
Chesterfield Forgery Defense Attorney ∙ Free Initial Sessions
We do not think you should have to pay us for our job interview.
If you are looking for a Virginia law firm to defend you against check fraud charges, you can talk to one of our lawyers free of charge to learn about your legal options and what we can do to help you in your case. You have enough concerns without having to pay to learn about our law firm's services. Contact us online, call 804-332-6161 or 866-547-6373 toll free to schedule your free initial consultation.
