Legal Question in Criminal Law in Missouri

Misdemeanor Check Charge Enhanced to Felony

I bounced several checks when my self employment greatly slowed down in the winter of 2005. I have paid nearly all of them, some right away but some through 2 counties bad check units. My bank closed my account after my account was in overdraft for 30 days. I received, and still have, a letter dated Jan 6th, 2006 informing me that my account was being closed on that day, and my overdraft charged off. I just found out that one check for approximately $49 was not paid to a local gas station. This check was written on Dec 23, 2005 while my checking account was still open. However, since it was stamped 'Account Closed', our county prosecutor is charging me with a class c felony and I have a 'cash bond only' set at $2600!! I found this all out at case.net earlier today. The charges were filed in May. What can I do?? I may get them to drop it to a misdemeanor but can't afford such a huge cash bond and will lose my job if locked up for weeks! Thanks!!


Asked on 7/14/07, 1:43 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

Re: Misdemeanor Check Charge Enhanced to Felony

In many cases like yours if you can hire an attorney, the attorney can get the bond reduced or even get the judge to allow you to be released upon a recognizance bond which is basically your promise to appear in court. Then, with the attorney you just voluntarily turn yourself in, get processed and get released the same day. After that, the attorney should be able to negotiate a plea bargain on your behalf if the attorney can't get the charge dropped completely. Hire an attorney.

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Answered on 7/14/07, 2:02 am


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