Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

line of credit

My wife obtained a line of credit on the property we have that is in her name. she did this by claiming single on the morgage form as in florida a spouse signature is required before closing. she did this because she thinks I was going to file for divorce. I suspected she was trying to--name removed--this and went to the bank before she got the money and talk to the manager about the situation and the manager informed me there is nothing they can--name removed--since my name is not the form. the bank ended up giving her a lot of money, after that I talked to the manager again and this time she told me she cannot give me any information and I can contact their legal departement. what are my options? Is the bank required to check if the applicant is married? can I sue the bank? can my wife be charged with fraud? thanks


Asked on 6/21/07, 8:13 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: line of credit

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such nformation, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

If the property is your homestead, the law requires both spouses to agree to a mortgage if the bank wishes to foreclose if monies are not repaid. There is no law that requires both parties to sign in order to give a loan, however. As a rule, a bank will require both to join in on a mortgage regardless of how title is held in order to safeguard their interests and allow them to take the property back if not paid. There may be serious issues for the bank, but I am not sure that you have any claim against them.

What your wife did is possibly actionable at law. She gave a false statement to the bank. The bank may have a claim against her.

I would suggest that you review this matter with a qualified attorney who can advise you as to your legal rights and obligations.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 6/21/07, 8:19 pm


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