Skip to Content
Morris Law Firm, P.A. Morris Law Firm, P.A.
ATTORNEYS ON CALL 24/7 727-592-5885
Top
Worthless Checks DEFENDERS of Your Rights. Your Life. Your Future.

Worthless Checks

When an individual issues a check, he or she is implying that the account linked to the check has the necessary funds to cover the check. If the account does not have sufficient funds, the issuer of the check can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense.

St. Petersburg Worthless Check Lawyer

If you have been arrested for writing a worthless check, contact a St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney to discuss possible defenses and specific strategies that may exist in your case. Melinda Morris has the knowledge and experience necessary to provide you with a thorough defense.

Morris Law Firm, P.A. serves clients throughout Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa, Hillsborough, Pasco, Bradenton, Manatee, and Sarasota. Call Melinda Morris at (727) 592-5885 to discuss your, or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.

Overview on Worthless Checks in Florida

Definition of Writing a Worthless Check

According to Section 832.05 of the Florida Statutes an individual can be charged with a criminal offense if they make, issue, use, or deliver a check, with knowledge that the there are insufficient funds in the account linked to the check.

Defenses to Writing a Hot Check

One of the most commonly used defenses to writing a hot check is the individual did not know the check would bounce due to an honest miscalculation of the account balance.

Another potential defense to this crime is that the check was postdated and was not supposed to be cashed until a certain date. This could show that the individual who the check was given to knew that the check would bounce if cashed before the date marked on the check.

Penalties for Writing a Bad Check

In St. Petersburg, an individual who writes a worthless check can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, and sentenced to up to a year in jail, and/or be ordered to pay a fine of up to $1,000.

If the value of the check was over $150, the individual can face a third-degree felony charge, which is punishable by up to five years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Defending Those Accused of Writing Bad Checks in Pinellas County

If you have been charged with a crime for allegedly writing hot checks, it is important to understand your legal options. Melinda Morris is a viable attorney who serves individual charged with theft crimes in St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, Tampa Bay, and the surrounding areas.

Contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. at (727) 592-5885 for more information on what we can do to help you fight the allegations against you. As a former prosecutor, Melinda Morris understands the charges you face and tactics often used by the prosecution. Call her today at (727) 592-5885 for a free consultation.

Meet The Attorneys Melinda Morris & Seth Shapiro
Attorney Profiles

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

See the Difference Our Service Provides
  • FORMER STATE PROSECUTOR
    Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
  • STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVE
    We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
  • TRUSTED & EXPERIENCED
    Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
  • PERSONAL ATTENTION
    We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
  • PROMPT COMMUNICATION
    You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
  • SAME DAY REPRESENTATION
    The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.

CLient Testimonials

Hear From Real People We've Helped

At Morris Law Firm, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Look no further than Morris Law"
    Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.
    - Stephen on AVVO
    "100% satisfied with Morris Law Group."
    100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.
    - Peter R. on Yelp
    "Best legal representation"
    If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda
    - Hassan on Google
    "Thanks to The Morris Law Firm"
    Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.
    - Melody Z.
    "Goes above and beyond"
    Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.
    - Shasta on Google
    "They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful."
    Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.
    - Elina P. on Google