Dealing With Forged Deeds

Summary

The user purchased a property in Texas and later discovered that the deed might have been forged. The conversation explored the legal implications of forgery, the role of title insurance, and the importance of contacting law enforcement and a real estate attorney. The user was advised to keep all documents safe as they would be crucial in the case. The user was also informed about the potential felony charges for forgery in Texas. The conversation also touched upon the role of the county in recording deeds and the potential for legal action to compel an investigation into the alleged forgery. The user was also advised to consult with a real estate attorney for further guidance. The conversation also discussed the legality of recording an IMEI number and the potential for law enforcement to track a device using its IMEI number. The user was advised that unauthorized tracking is illegal and punishable by law. The conversation also touched upon

Full Conversation

I purchased a piece of land in Texas. I found out that the person that sold me the property may have forged the deed. The title was clear.
Did you have a title insurance policy when you purchased the land?

In Texas, forgery of a deed is a felony. You may need to contact law enforcement and a real estate attorney.
The fraudulent insured the title.
What evidence do you have that suggests the deed was forged?

In Texas, forgery is a felony punishable by imprisonment and fines. You should report this to the police and consult a real estate attorney.
The original owner "Bob Smith" says his deed was transferred to another person. I purchased it from that person. The forged deed was recorded by the county as "legal."
What steps have you taken since discovering the potential forgery?

General Information:
- In Texas, forgery is a felony.
- Contact local law enforcement and a real estate attorney.
- Nearest court: Texas Supreme Court, * W 14th St, Austin, TX *, (*) *-*.
I called the police. I have my sales receipt, warranty deed, and proof of a clear title.
What was the response from the police when you reported the potential forgery?

General Information:
- Keep all documents safe as they will be crucial in your case.
- Consult with a real estate attorney for further guidance.
They are checking it out.
What is the current status of the investigation? Have you been contacted by the police since you reported the issue?
No. No one has contacted me.
Have you considered contacting a real estate attorney to help you navigate this issue?
No, i'm waiting.
What are you waiting for before contacting a real estate attorney? It's crucial to seek legal advice in such situations.
To hear from the police.
What is the timeline since you reported the issue to the police? It's important to know that legal proceedings can take time.
Two days.
Have you considered reaching out to the title insurance company about this issue? They may be able to assist you in this situation.
Yes, i did.
What was the response from the title insurance company when you contacted them about the issue?
They are waiting to hear from the county.
What was the response from the county when the title insurance company contacted them about the issue?
They did nothing wrong if the county recorded the document as legal.
What was the county's response when they were contacted about the potential forgery?
Nothing tyet.
What steps has the county taken to investigate the potential forgery?
yet.
What was the response from the county when they were contacted about the potential forgery?
I'm not in the loop.
What steps has the county taken to investigate the potential forgery?
?
What is the name of the person who allegedly forged the deed?
Same as the original owner only in a trust.
What is the name of the trust that the original owner's deed was transferred to?
It has the same name as the original owner except it says trust at the end.
What is the name of the original owner and the trust? This information could be crucial in your case.
I'm not will to say.
Understood. Have you considered seeking a court order to compel the county to investigate the alleged forgery?
How do I do that?
To seek a court order, you would typically need to file a petition with the court. It's advisable to consult with a real estate attorney for guidance.
Do you know about title searches?
Yes, a title search is a detailed examination of the historical records concerning a property. These records include deeds, court records, property and name indexes, and many other documents.
If the title search can't detect an issue with a recorded deed, then what?
If a title search doesn't detect an issue, it doesn't mean there isn't one. Title insurance can protect against undiscovered issues. Consult a real estate attorney for further guidance.
And the title insurance will insure my purchase price?
Yes, title insurance typically covers the purchase price of the property. It protects against financial loss due to defects in the title, such as forgery.
If someone wants to know the identity of an LLC member because of a suspected crime, is the Attorney client privilege protecting the LLC member void?
Attorney-client privilege generally protects communications between a lawyer and client. However, there's a "crime-fraud exception" which may apply if the communication was in furtherance of a crime or fraud.
If the lawyer set up the LLC and knows the members names will the attorney disclose the names?
The attorney generally cannot disclose the names due to attorney-client privilege unless a court order is obtained or if the "crime-fraud exception" applies.
Ok.
Have you considered filing a lawsuit against the person who sold you the property?

General Information:
- In Texas, you can sue for damages if you're a victim of fraud.
- Nearest court: Texas Supreme Court, * W 14th St, Austin, TX *, (*) *-*.
N/A
What is the name of the person who sold you the property?

General Information:
- In Texas, forgery is a felony.
- Contact local law enforcement and a real estate attorney.
- Nearest court: Texas Supreme Court, * W 14th St, Austin, TX *, (*) *-*.
n/a
What is the name of the title insurance company that insured your title?
I brought no property.
Could you please clarify what you mean by "I brought no property"? Are you saying that you didn't purchase the land in question?
When you sell a house titled under an llc, who signs the documents?
The person authorized to act on behalf of the LLC, typically a managing member or manager, would sign the documents when selling a house titled under an LLC.
Texas
What specific legal issue or question do you have related to Texas?
Who are the members of an llc
The members of an LLC are the owners of the company. In Texas, the names of the members are not required to be listed in the public records.
They are called sharholders or members
Are you trying to find out the members of a specific LLC in Texas?

General Information:
- In Texas, LLC members are not required to be listed in public records.
- Members can be individuals, corporations, other LLCs, or foreign entities.
Can IRS statements be verified .
Yes, IRS statements can be verified. You can request a tax return transcript from the IRS, which includes most lines of the original tax return.
Is there a fee?
No, the IRS provides tax return transcripts free of charge.
How long does it take?
The IRS typically sends tax return transcripts within * to 10 days from the time they receive the request.
What documents are are required to buy a house?
To buy a house, you typically need:

- Proof of identity
- Proof of income
- Credit history
- Property's legal description
- Purchase agreement
- Proof of insurance
- Home inspection reports
- Appraisal report
Do I need IRS staements?
Are you asking if you need IRS statements for purchasing a house?

General Information:
- IRS statements are not typically required for purchasing a house.
- However, lenders may ask for tax return transcripts to verify your income.
Ok
Are you planning to purchase a house in Texas?
Can tax returns be verified?
Yes, tax returns can be verified. You can request a tax return transcript from the IRS, which includes most lines of the original tax return.
How can I make money with my property without selling it?
You can make money with your property by renting it out, starting a home-based business, or using it for agricultural purposes. What type of property do you own?
A big piece of land.
What is the location of your land? Depending on the zoning laws, you might be able to lease it for farming, hunting, or even renewable energy projects.
Texas.
What is the size and zoning of your land in Texas? Depending on these factors, you could consider leasing it for agricultural use, developing it into rental properties, or using it for renewable energy projects.
Steve Reynolds transferred a deed into an LLC that he manages and is an owner. Now, he's claiming he did not sign. What are my options?
Did you have a written agreement with Steve Reynolds regarding the transfer of the deed?
No, it was just transferred.
It was transferred without a written agreement.
No
no
Are you broken?
I apologize if there was any confusion. Can you please clarify if you have any evidence to support your claim that Steve Reynolds transferred the deed?
His signature.
Do you have an expert's opinion confirming that the signature on the deed is indeed Steve Reynolds'?
No
no
Do you have any other evidence or witnesses that can support your claim about the deed transfer?
it was registered by the county.
Did you obtain a copy of the deed from the county records after it was registered?
yes
What actions have you taken since discovering that Steve Reynolds is denying his signature on the deed?
none
What is the reason for Steve Reynolds denying his signature on the deed?
The property is now in possession of all the owners in the LLC. It was exclusively Steve's.
What is the name of the LLC that now possesses the property?
Why?
The name of the LLC could be crucial in your case. It can help in identifying the members involved and in understanding the structure of the LLC.
He's a managing member.
What is the name of the LLC where Steve Reynolds is a managing member?
I'm not interested in saying.
Understood. Have you considered seeking legal advice to understand your options in this situation?
no
What is the reason for not seeking legal advice yet? It's crucial to consult with a real estate attorney in such situations.
I will.
What is the location of the property in question? Depending on the location, different laws and regulations may apply.
Do banks allow online money wires?
Yes, most banks do allow online money wires. However, each bank has its own set of rules and fees. It's best to check with your specific bank for details.
Are wires the best way to buy a franchise?
What is the total cost of the franchise you are planning to buy? Wire transfers can be efficient for large amounts, but fees may apply.
*,*
What is the location of the franchise you are planning to buy?
UK
What is the name of the franchise you are planning to buy? In the UK, the British Franchise Association can provide information on franchise regulations and standards.
not important
What is your preferred method of payment for the franchise purchase?
wire?
Are you aware of the potential risks associated with wire transfers, such as fraud or scams?
yes
What is your bank's policy on wire transfers, including fees and security measures?
What is a better way?
Have you considered a bank draft or certified cheque? These methods offer security and are often used for large transactions like buying a franchise.
what is a draft?
A bank draft is a type of check where payment is guaranteed by the issuing bank. It's a secure method of payment, often used for large transactions.
What is a broker?
A broker is a person or firm who arranges transactions between a buyer and a seller for a commission when the deal is executed. They are typically used in complex transactions like real estate, insurance, and stocks.
Is there such a thing as a business broker?
Yes, a business broker is a professional who assists in the buying and selling of businesses. They help to connect buyers and sellers, and facilitate transactions.
Do they ever hold the money like esrow?
Yes, business brokers can hold funds in escrow during a transaction. This provides a layer of security for both parties involved.
Great!
Are you considering using a business broker for your franchise purchase?
Do they need a licennce?
Yes, in the UK, business brokers are required to be licensed. The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) can provide more information.
What about the USA?
In the USA, business brokers are not required to be licensed unless they're dealing with real estate. However, many choose to become members of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA).
Do I need to show/prove i'm bound by a confidentiality clause of just say it?
What is the context of the confidentiality clause? Is it related to the franchise purchase or another matter? Generally, it's advisable to have written proof of any legal agreements.
Whether someone purchased a business through my brokerge.
Are you asking if you need to provide proof of a confidentiality agreement when disclosing if a business was purchased through your brokerage?
Yes
In most cases, you would need to provide proof of a confidentiality agreement to legally enforce it. However, it's best to consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
Is that like attorney client privilege?
Attorney-client privilege and confidentiality agreements are different. The former protects communication between a lawyer and client, while the latter restricts disclosure of certain information. Both require proof for enforcement.
What are the methods that land buyers can pay for land?
Land buyers can pay for land through various methods such as cash, bank financing, seller financing, or lease options. What is the location of the land you're planning to buy?
I meant, if i sell land how do i get paid? texas
In Texas, you can get paid through various methods such as cash, wire transfer, or a cashier's check. Do you have a real estate attorney to guide you through the process?
no
It's advisable to hire a real estate attorney for legal guidance. You can contact Texas State Bar Association at (*) *-* for a referral.
cash? Actual dollar bills?
In Texas, it's legal to accept cash as payment for land. However, for large transactions, it's safer to use traceable methods like wire transfers or cashier's checks.
What are reasons for large money transfers?
Large money transfers are often used for significant transactions such as buying property, businesses, or franchises. They provide a quick and efficient way to move large amounts of money.
what is similar to an escrow company?
A title company or a trust company can provide similar services to an escrow company. They hold funds or assets until the terms of a contract are fulfilled.
Do title companies need to be licenced?
Yes, title companies need to be licensed in the state they operate in. In Texas, they're regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance.
In the UK?m
In the UK, title companies are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They must be registered and comply with FCA rules and regulations.
Which tangible items can not be seized by the government?
In the UK, some items that cannot be seized by the government include tools, books, vehicles, and other items of equipment necessary for personal use in employment or business, and basic domestic needs like clothing and bedding.
In texas
In Texas, the homestead (primary residence), personal property up to a certain value, and certain types of insurance are generally exempt from seizure by creditors or the government.
How are assest hidden?
Hiding assets is illegal and can lead to serious penalties. It's important to disclose all assets in legal proceedings to ensure a fair process. Can you clarify why you're asking about hiding assets?
Why is hiding money illegal?
Hiding money, especially to evade taxes or during legal proceedings like divorce or bankruptcy, is considered fraud. It's illegal because it undermines the integrity of the legal and financial systems.
No to evade taxes. Just to hide it.
Why do you want to hide your money? It's important to note that hiding money can lead to legal consequences, even if it's not for tax evasion.
To protect it.
What specific threats are you trying to protect your money from? It's important to note that there are legal ways to protect your assets, such as insurance, trusts, and diversification.
Explain using an escrow and courier service to buy expensive items.
Are you considering using an escrow and courier service for a specific transaction? If so, could you provide more details about the transaction?

General Information:

- Escrow services hold funds until both parties fulfill their contractual obligations.
- Courier services ensure safe delivery of physical items.
- Always use reputable services to avoid scams.
yes, jewelery
What is the value of the jewelry you are planning to purchase and from which location are you buying it?
*,*
What is the location of the seller?
usa
What is the name and location of the escrow service you are planning to use?
idk
What is your location? This will help me provide you with information about escrow services in your area.
general info please.
What is the location of the jewelry seller in the USA?
new york
What is the name of the jewelry seller or the store?

In New York, you can contact the New York State Attorney General's office for information on consumer protection laws related to jewelry purchases. Their contact number is (*) *-*.
explain the process.
When buying expensive items like jewelry using an escrow and courier service, the process generally follows these steps:

*. Both parties agree to terms.
*. Buyer deposits money in escrow.
*. Seller ships the item via courier.
*. Buyer inspects and accepts the item.
*. Escrow releases funds to the seller.

Always ensure the escrow and courier services are reputable.
I will.
Are you aware of the potential risks involved in this process, such as fraud or scams, and do you know how to verify the legitimacy of the escrow and courier services?
Can businesses give personal loans?
Yes, businesses can give personal loans. However, they must comply with federal and state lending laws. Can you tell me which state your business is located in?
tx
What is the purpose of the loan and the amount you intend to lend?

In Texas, businesses can provide personal loans but must adhere to state usury laws.
*,* no interest.
Are you aware that in Texas, a loan with no interest might be considered a gift and could be subject to the gift tax?
no
In Texas, a loan of $*,* with no interest could be considered a gift and may be subject to federal gift tax.
*%, then.
Are you planning to charge *% interest on the loan? In Texas, the maximum legal interest rate is *% per annum. Charging more could be considered usury.
yes
In Texas, charging *% interest on a personal loan is legal. Ensure to draft a proper loan agreement to avoid future disputes.
Is that it? Draft a loan agreement and receive the money back?
Do you have a repayment schedule in mind? It's crucial to include this in your loan agreement to ensure both parties understand the terms.
no
What is the duration of the loan you are planning to give?
1 year
In Texas, for a *-year loan, it's advisable to have a clear repayment schedule. This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures timely repayment.
10 days
Are you saying that the loan will be repaid in full within 10 days?

General Information:
- In Texas, short-term loans should also have a clear repayment agreement.
- For legal help, contact Travis County Court at (*) *-*.
yes
In Texas, a full repayment within 10 days is legal. Ensure the loan agreement clearly states this to avoid any confusion.
What items can easily be liquidated for cash
What type of assets are you considering for liquidation? Commonly, assets like stocks, bonds, real estate, vehicles, and jewelry can be easily liquidated.
When it asks "who is preparing the warranty deed" what do i put? I am the owner tranfering to an LLC I ownand manage.
As the owner transferring the property to your LLC, you would typically be the one preparing the warranty deed. However, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure accuracy.
Can I be the manager of the LLC and a sole owner.
Yes, in Texas, you can be both the sole owner and manager of an LLC. It's important to clearly state this in your LLC's operating agreement.
With the owners not visible, can it appear to be more than one owner?
In Texas, an LLC's ownership can be private. However, if there's only one owner, it cannot appear as multiple owners unless there are actual additional owners.
Why, does the LLC disclose how many owners are involved?
An LLC discloses the number of owners to ensure transparency and accountability. It's also required for tax purposes and to comply with state laws. In Texas, this information is typically included in the LLC's operating agreement.
Who sees the number of owners?
The number of owners of an LLC is typically disclosed to the state during the formation process and can be accessed by the public through a request to the Secretary of State's office.
What about in Whyoming?
In Wyoming, the number of LLC owners isn't required to be disclosed publicly. The state only requires the name and address of a registered agent.
Ok,
Do you have any other questions about LLCs or personal loans, or is there another legal issue you'd like to discuss?
So it could appear that a Wyoming LLC had many owners? I only need to sign as a manager on real estate documents and never disclose that I'm the sole owner?
Yes, in Wyoming, you can maintain privacy regarding LLC ownership. However, ensure all actions are in compliance with the law.
I have a property tax bill that says "levy" but nothing is due for a few weeks. Is that normal?
Yes, it's normal. A "levy" is the legal seizure of property to satisfy a debt. In this case, it's the amount levied by the government for property tax.
How do i find properties prior to auction?
What state are you looking for properties in? In general, you can find pre-auction properties through real estate websites, local newspapers, and county courthouses.
tx
What county in Texas are you interested in? In Texas, foreclosure listings are often posted in the county courthouse.
dallas
In Dallas County, foreclosure listings are posted at the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building, * Commerce St, Dallas, TX *. Contact: (*) *-*.
So foreclosed and properties with liens go to auction?
Yes, typically foreclosed properties and properties with liens do go to auction. Are you interested in attending these auctions?
Anything else?
You may also want to consider hiring a real estate agent experienced in foreclosures. They can help you navigate the process.
No, i want to locate property before it's auctioned.
Have you considered subscribing to a foreclosure listing service? They often provide information about properties before they go to auction.
no.How much?
The cost of subscribing to a foreclosure listing service can vary, typically ranging from $* to $* per month.
Anything free?
Have you tried checking the Dallas County Clerk's website? They often list upcoming foreclosures for free.
no. under what link?
You can find foreclosure listings under the "Foreclosure Notices" section on the Dallas County Clerk's website.
ok. thanks
You're welcome! If you have any more questions in the future, feel free to ask. Good luck with your property search!
If a house is about to be foreclosed on and the owner transfers the house into someone elses name, what happens?
What is the reason for the transfer? In general, transferring a house to avoid foreclosure can be considered fraudulent and may not stop the foreclosure process.
So the new person can pay for it.
What is the relationship between the current owner and the new person?
family
What is the financial situation of the new owner? Are they capable of paying off the existing mortgage or lien on the property?
not on paper, but yes.
Is the new owner willing to assume the existing mortgage or lien on the property? In general, if the new owner can pay off the existing debt, the foreclosure process may be halted.
If an owner dies without a will and a house is empty, who owes it?
In Texas, if an owner dies intestate (without a will), the property generally passes to their closest relatives under the state's intestate succession laws.
is there a free tech chat ?
Are you looking for a free tech chat related to legal issues or for general tech support?
technology
Are you seeking legal advice related to technology or are you looking for general tech support?
both
What specific legal advice related to technology are you seeking? For general tech support, there are various online forums like Tech Support Guy and Bleeping Computer.
can the police track an iPhone by the iemi number?
Yes, law enforcement can potentially track a device using its IMEI number, but this typically requires a warrant or consent.
to the exact address?
Law enforcement can use IMEI to track the general location of a device, but it may not provide an exact address without additional information or technology.
when will that be available?
Could you please clarify what you're referring to when you ask "when will that be available?"
the additional technology
What specific additional technology are you referring to? Are you asking about advancements in tracking devices or something else?
iphone
What specific feature or technology related to the iPhone are you asking about?
tracking imei number
What is the reason you want to track an IMEI number? Please note that unauthorized tracking is illegal and punishable by law.
I'm not tracking it. I want the police to.
What is the reason you want the police to track the IMEI number?
A phone was used to commit a crime against me.
I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Have you reported this to the police yet?
yes
What was their response when you reported the crime and the IMEI number to them?
I don't have the number their isp does.
Have you requested the police to obtain the IMEI number from the ISP?
yes
What was the police's response to your request?
it takes time
What is the estimated time they gave you for this process?
IDK
What crime was committed against you?
fraud
I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Have you considered consulting with a lawyer to discuss your options and potential legal remedies?
I'd like to provide a scenario.
Sure, ****. Please go ahead and provide the scenario. I'm here to help you navigate through it.
If a criminal takes illicit funds and buys a car and the car is later sold to someone else, how far do the police track the financial bread crumbs. Are they able to investigate and harass everyone associated?
What is the location of this scenario? Laws regarding asset forfeiture and tracing illicit funds can vary by jurisdiction.
tx
What is the specific nature of the harassment you're referring to? In Texas, law enforcement can investigate any suspicious transactions, but harassment is not permitted.
getting a court order the look into a bank account.
What is the reason for the investigation? In Texas, a court order can be obtained to inspect bank accounts if there's suspicion of illegal activity.
to see the last person who benefited from illicit funds
What is the relationship between you and the person who benefited from the illicit funds?

In Texas, law enforcement can investigate suspicious transactions, but they need a court order to inspect bank accounts.
none
What is the current status of the investigation?
please answer. It's a scenario, remember?
Are you currently under investigation or is this a hypothetical scenario?
scenario, as i stated to begin with.
In a hypothetical scenario in Texas, law enforcement can investigate suspicious transactions and may obtain a court order to inspect bank accounts if there's suspicion of illegal activity.
If a criminal uses illicit funds to buy a car from a private dealer, is that person investigated?
The private dealer could be investigated if there's suspicion of involvement in the illegal activity. However, mere receipt of illicit funds unknowingly doesn't necessarily lead to criminal liability.
what cant tablets do?
Tablets, in terms of technology, have limitations such as not being able to run heavy software or perform tasks requiring high processing power. Can you clarify how this relates to your legal issue?
what type of word processors do they use?
Courts typically use Microsoft Word for document processing. However, it can vary depending on the specific court system. Can you specify which court you're referring to?
what type of word processors do tablets use?
Tablets can use various word processors like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages, etc. It depends on the operating system of the tablet.