What can I be charged with if I stole a check and cashed it?

Stealing a check and cashing it in Utah, can easily lead to three separate charges - both at the felony and misdemeanor level. If you are facing criminal charges in Utah, an experienced criminal defense attorney can make all the difference. Based in Salt Lake City, Stephen Howard provides legal services to clients throughout Utah. He has successfully protected his clients' rights in thousands of serious felony and misdemeanor cases. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.

Stolen Checks in Utah - Theft, Forgery, and Theft by Deception

The most likely felony charge for passing a stolen check would be forgery. Most stolen checks have changes made to the "pay to the order of" line, changes made in the amount to be paid, another person's name is endorsed on the back of the check, or a stolen blank check is filled in completely without authorization from the account holder. Either altering the check without authorization from the account holder, signing the check as if signed by the account holder, or endorsing another person's name on the back of the check could support a felony charge of forgery. Years ago, the offense level for a forged check charge in Utah was determined by the face value of the check. But the legislature amended the statute so that any forgery is an automatic felony - regardless of the amount of the check.

The other two likely charges involving a stolen check are theft (for taking the check without permission) and theft by deception or attempted theft by deception (for obtaining or attempting to obtain the money from cashing the check). The level for theft offenses in Utah is based on the value of the property involved.  Property valued at under $500 is considered a class B misdemeanor. Property valued at $500 but under $1,500 is considered a class A misdemeanor. If the value of the properly is over $1,500 but less than $5,000, theft is classified as a third degree felony. If the value exceeds $5,000, the charge can be filed as a second degree felony.

Finding a Forgery and Theft Defense Attorney in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you are facing charges for theft, forgery, or other criminal charges in Utah, you deserve an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Stephen Howard has a track record of successfully protecting his clients' rights, with results of dismissals or not guilty verdicts on charges including aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, theft, forgery, fraud, drug charges, and many more.

Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation.