It is very important that you don’t commit bankruptcy fraud in Nashville, Tennessee, something that can, in certain situations, be done accidentally. Be sure you know exactly what legal steps to take and what is required of you under the law so that you don’t find yourself in a difficult situation. There are four main types of fraud to be aware of.
Hiding Assets
The first type of fraud happens when a debtor conceals the money or assets that he or she owns. This is done so that those assets won’t have to be liquidated or to appear broke — and in need of bankruptcy — when one actually would not qualify.
Falsified Forms
The second type happens when a person files a falsified form on purpose. The form may also be incomplete. This does not mean that making mistakes honestly — and forgetting to complete the form — is illegal, but it becomes fraud when it is done intentionally and with full knowledge of what one is doing.
Multiple Filings
The third type is when a person files multiple times. This is sometimes done in the same state with fake information and personal details. Other times, the person uses accurate information, but he or she files in a few different states.
Bribery
Finally, the fourth type of fraud is when a person who is filing decides to bribe an official. Often, these bribes are aimed at judges or court-appointed trustees. The bribes can have many different end goals, such as getting a favorable ruling on what must be liquidated or being approved for bankruptcy when one should not be.
Source: Cornell Law School, “Bankruptcy fraud,” accessed Aug. 19, 2015