bad check

In one sentence

Writing a check when you lack sufficient funds or a valid account to cover it.

Plain English

A bad check is a check written on an account that either has insufficient funds to cover the amount or doesn't exist at all. Writing a bad check can be a civil matter (the bank or recipient simply doesn't get paid) or a criminal offense, depending on whether the person acted knowingly and with intent to defraud. Many jurisdictions treat repeated bad checks or those written with deliberate intent to deceive as a crime.

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Example

A person writes a check for $500 from a bank account that only contains $50, knowing the check will bounce. If they did this intentionally to avoid paying a debt, they could face criminal charges for writing a bad check.

Used in a sentence

“The store owner reported the customer for writing a bad check that was returned by the bank.”

Related terms

defendant

The person accused of a crime in a criminal case or sued in a civil case.

criminal intent

The mental state or purpose required to commit a crime.

Felony

A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.

Statute of Limitations

A law setting the maximum time period within which a lawsuit can be filed after an injury or breach occurs.

Notice

A formal written communication required by a contract to inform the other party of something important.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.