Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Credit Card

I have a business partner who has 50% ownership of my company. About a moth ago I applied for a business credit card for the business using both of our names and signed my partners name.I did not discuss it with him. I have made payments on the card however on time. My partner has been called by the fraud department to tell him about this, can I go to jail for this if my partner decides to press charges or by making payment does this help at all. This has been a very stupid move on my part and I want to know what will happen. Thank you.


Asked on 3/25/02, 2:23 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Steven Mandell Law Offices of Steven R. Mandell

Re: Credit Card

It appears that you have committed a forgery, maybe perjury, and perhaps a criminal fraud. But you've paid the bills when required, so there is no loss. That said, however, the answer to your question is not so simple. If you rob a bank but then have a change of heart and give the money back, you've still committed the robbery. Whether or not the prosecutor will press criminal charges depends on many factors, and having a complaining witness (your partner) is a requirement. I suggest you have a consultation with a criminal lawyer in your area to discuss tactics and strategies which are designed to prevent the charges from being filed in the first place. Most criminal lawyers give free consultations. If you'd like to meet with me for a free consultation, don't hesitate to call. Steve Mandell, Attorney at Law, Santa Monica 310 393 0639

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Answered on 3/25/02, 11:50 pm


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