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Bankruptcy Fraud

Columbus Bankruptcy Fraud Lawyer

Jeopardizing your Bankruptcy

An individual or business with insurmountable debts and facing unrelenting collection action from creditors may need to seek the protections provided by the Bankruptcy Court and in an effort to deal with the problematic financial circumstances. Bankruptcy is the last resort for many. The judge, bankruptcy trustee and creditors expect the petitioner to present a clear and honest picture of the actual scene. In fact, all statements and documents are submitted under penalty of perjury.

If you attempt to conceal property, make false accounts or claims, mislead or otherwise attempt to defeat the Bankruptcy Code provisions you may find yourself in very serious legal trouble. Bankruptcy fraud committed by a business can involve shareholders, directors, employees, partners and other associates. If an individual had others assist in the fraudulent actions, then they all are subject to prosecution. Not only does it jeopardize your chance of a successful bankruptcy, it also exposes you and others to punishment by the courts.

Committing Fraud

The subject of "Bankruptcy Fraud" is addressed in 18 U.S.C. Section 152 and more specifically in Section 157. The bankruptcy court requires all facts included in the petitions, schedules, and statements submitted by the debtor are true and accurate, and verified under oath when the petitioner testifies regarding the financial situation. It is against the law to transfer or conceal property, destroy documents, pay someone to commit a fraudulent action, or engage in unlawful means as covered in the bankruptcy statutes. A federal crime involving bankruptcy can be extremely dangerous, and should be addressed with the help of a defense lawyer that has experience in federal court.

The courts dismiss many fraud cases because they are difficult to prove, but along with the dismissal is the opportunity for a real bankruptcy action. If the case is not dismissed then it will be prosecuted by the Department of Justice, bringing in an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. If the defendant is convicted the penalties can include:

  • Maximum 5 year prison sentence
  • Maximum $250,000 fine
  • Restitution

The crimes of perjury, falsifying records and tampering may increase the charges. To help you avoid fraud make sure you deal honestly and fairly with your creditors. Our Columbus criminal attorneys at The Meranda Law Firm LTD can help you to face the scrutiny of federal prosecutors in court. If you are accused of committing bankruptcy fraud, it is imperative that you have a defense attorney with great insight and skill on your side from the outset.


Contact us for advice if you made a mistake or false statement in your submissions during a bankruptcy proceeding as you may face serious fraud charges. 


 

Hear From Our Happy Clients

Reviews & Testimonials

At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    “As stress free as it can be”
    A criminal case can be very stressful. The Meranda Law Firm can help you with this process. Zack is there to make sure that you get the best personal one on one help you can get. So you don't get pushed around in the system. Takes all the worry out of your case. Very down to earth guy. Easy to talk too. Without Zack I don't know where I would be right now. Thanks Zack; can't tell you how much I appreciate the help you gave me. If you are looking for a lawyer that can take the stress out of your case Zack is your guy
    - Jeff w
    “Great Representation”
    There are three reasons I recommend Zachuary Meranda if you are arrested for DUI. First off, he is a straight shooter. Never did he sugar coat my situation. Second, he handled everything while keeping me informed and walked me through everything as it progressed. Third, he got me the result- NO DUI!!! Thanks Zak!
    - Shane Dolen
    “Excellent job!”
    We are very appreciative of the efforts put forth by Zach Meranda. The outcome was positive and he made us feel secure in an out of control situation. Felt glad to have him defending us and having his common sense approach to our case. We would recommend his services to anyone in need.
    - Anonymous
    “I Highly Recommend The Meranda Law Firm”
    I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I've had other attorneys and Zach is the only one that actually knew my case and put a lot of time and effort into making sure the outcome was good, which it definitely was. I really think he is one of the best attorneys & I highly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.
    - Payton R
    “Great work!!”
    Zach Meranda was a real attorney with a no bull shit strategy!!! But he won my criminal case even when the odds were against me and I thank him and his associates!!
    - Pfeifer
    “Great Job”
    Zach did a great job representing me. He worked hard to take care of me in my case. If I ever need a lawyer again, I'll definitely give him a call first.
    - Rod
    “Great Attorney”
    Zach is a great attorney. He has represented me twice and both times I got positive results. If you need an attorney call The Meranda Law Firm, he's the best.
    - Frances Benson
    “An Attorney That Will Give You His All!”
    Zach is incredibly professional and will work as hard as he can for you, no matter how big or small your case is. He shows genuine concern and interest in his client and the situation. He is straight forward and honest. Zach was the third attorney on my case and the only one that actually took the time to become familiar with my case. He was not intimidated as my previous attorneys were and his competency resulted in my case ending in a very satisfying outcome.
    - Rylan Burrie

Have Questions?

We Have Answers!
  • What should I do if my child was arrested?
    No parent wants their child to have to go through an ordeal like being arrested. When these situations do occur, it can be difficult to determine what the best course of action would be. The juvenile justice system is different from the adult justice system and so it is important that you have a legal representative who understands the juvenile system and can help you get through this time. Whether your child has been accused of DUI, a drug crime, a misdemeanor, or a felony, you will be able to have peace of mind knowing that we are there helping you every step of the way.
  • Can I afford a criminal defense attorney?
    Another question you will have to consider when deciding which defense lawyer to handle your case is whether or not you can afford it. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, we want to be able to provide reasonable rates to our clients so that you can get the help you need. In order to give you an idea of how much it will be, we will meet with you in a free consultation and discuss what kind of fees you could expect.
  • How do I appeal my conviction?
    What should you do if you have already been convicted of a crime and have received your sentence? If you believe that justice was not served, your first step should be to contact our firm to see if we could help you appeal your case. Not every attorney takes on appeal cases they can be more complex and time-consuming than other cases. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, however, we are committed to fighting for the rights of our clients, no matter how difficult the case. If you want us to look over your case, please contact our team as soon as possible.

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