My question involves criminal law for the state of: Texas
Okay, I did something really stupid. The short is I am homeless, and was desperate and depressed at the time.
I got induced to sign a pair of checks made out to me, and learned only later that the checks were stolen from a pair of shops.
Each check was in the amount of $980, and my pay for participating was $200 total. I do not know the other perpetrators (they approached me at a homeless shelter), nor would I be able to find them. I do know now that this is a fairly common scam perpetrated on addicts and the homeless.
Once I found out, I did want to back out, but was alone in a car with two big guys I didn't know, who were threatening. Also, as I said, I was depressed and desperate at the time.
No one has come after me as yet, though I am sure it is coming. The ID I used had an older address, in a different city. The banks involved were BofA.
Presently, I am staying at a shelter seeking help with alcoholism.
I understand this would mean a pair of felonies, if convicted. I do not have any previous felonies, and my only prior problems with the law amount to being tossed in the drunk tank. I am not by nature a law breaker, and do feel bad about this. I would like to do the right thing, yet avoid being victimized or squatted on by the system, of course.
Unfortunately, no way can I afford a lawyer. What is the best way I can prepare for, or proceed with this, to reduce or avoid jail time?
Thanks for any advice in advance.