Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Hot Checks

I would like to know the dollar amount of a hot check in California that makes it a felony. Also, if there is a ''number'' of hot checks written that makes it a criminal act that will result in jail time.


Asked on 10/31/06, 2:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel J. Mangan III JuryTrialJustice

Re: Hot Checks

Unfortunatly, there is no hard and fast rule of law regarding your questions. Charging decisions, which crimes, or, felony vs. misdemeanor, are at the District Attorneys discretion, as is the question regarding the "number" of checks at issue. Many factors may be at work when a DA decides what to file. As they are when it comes time for sentencing,,,which is further complexed by the Judge's input...

All of the "offenses" at issue seem to fall under California's forgery statutes, but other crimes/enhancements/priors etc.... may be charged, also at the DA's discretion, depending upon your personal circumstance.

Best to have an attorney ASAP.

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Answered on 10/31/06, 2:35 pm


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