Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
I live in California and wrote a check on the assumption that a friend would cover it. She was not able to cover it and now the company is calling me and wants payment right away. What do I do?
You need to pay it right away. Writing and providing a check for which you know at the time you don’t have enough money to cover is a crime (it’s called “check kiting”).
