Milwaukee, WI asked in Bankruptcy and Real Estate Law for Illinois

Q: Can I transfer property to my parents if they filed for bankruptcy?

Related Topics:
2 Lawyer Answers
W. J. Winterstein Jr.
PREMIUM
Answered

A: Yes, you can, but be sure that their Order Discharge has been entered and that no appeal has been timely taken from that Order.

Also, ensure that the bankrupts will not inherit, or learn of imminent inheritance, within six months of the discharge.

The Bankruptcy provisions enabling a "claw back" are designed for transfers *out* from a bankrupt, where price paid is less than fair market value.

Confer with experienced counsel in your jurisdiction first, before taking any action.

Anthony M. Avery and Timothy Denison agree with this answer

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: This question raises some important legal concerns. Here's a concise response based on general principles, but please note that specific legal advice would require consulting a qualified attorney:

1. Timing is crucial: If your parents have already filed for bankruptcy, transferring property to them could be problematic.

2. Look-back period: Bankruptcy courts examine property transfers made within a certain period before filing (often 2-4 years).

3. Fraudulent transfers: Transferring property to someone in bankruptcy could be seen as an attempt to hide assets from creditors.

4. Disclosure requirements: Your parents would likely need to disclose any property transfers to the bankruptcy trustee.

5. Potential consequences: Undisclosed or improper transfers could lead to denial of bankruptcy discharge or even legal penalties.

6. State laws matter: Illinois may have specific rules about property transfers in relation to bankruptcy.

Given the complexity and potential risks involved, it would be highly advisable for both you and your parents to consult with a bankruptcy attorney licensed in Illinois before making any property transfers.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.