What is the statute of limitations on a bad check?

Full question:

When there is a bad check written and you file charges with the police, is there ever a statue of limitations on the bad check charge?

  • Category: Debts and Credit
  • Subcategory: Bad Checks
  • Date:
  • State: Pennsylvania

Answer:

Section 5525 of Chapter 55 of Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Code provides in part as follows:

The following actions and proceedings must be commenced within four years:

An action upon a negotiable or nonnegotiable bond, note or other similar instrument in writing. Where such an instrument is payable upon demand, the time within which an action on it must be commenced shall be computed from the later of either demand or any payment of principal of or interest on the instrument.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Writing a bad check is generally not a federal offense; it is typically handled as a state crime. Each state has its laws regarding bad checks, which can include misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the amount involved. In Pennsylvania, for example, writing a bad check can lead to criminal charges under state law. However, if the bad check is part of a larger scheme that crosses state lines, it may attract federal charges.

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