Legal Question in Family Law in New York

Forging spouses signature on IRS Returns

I filed for divorce 4 yrs.ago from my husband who is a NY attorney. We are in the process of finally negotiating a settlement agreement and I have discovered my husband has withheld significant financial information from both attorneys and me, and has forged my name on this year's IRS Tax Returns and the Tax Returns for '94. He allowed me to sign '95 and '96 even though he would not let me read them. How much trouble is he in? Can I bring charges against him? I've never objected to signing the returns so he can't claim that I refused to sign. I am applying to the IRS for court certified copies so that I can see the signatures.


Asked on 4/23/98, 1:02 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Salvatore Lagonia Attorney At Law

Forging Name on Joint Tax Returns

He can be in serious trouble. The issue you need to consider is the return that you did sign. If you signed it, whether you read it or not, you can be held responsible. But forgery is a serious charge. I agree with the first step that you have taken, get certified copies. One other question that should be considered - who endorsed the check for payment to the bank. If he forged your name there he has committed a state crime as well.Good luck!

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Answered on 5/13/98, 9:47 pm


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