Fraud

[HarlotOTara]

If someone forges a signature on many cheques and pockets the money what is likely to happen, I believe the police have been notified but nothing has happened yet? Also if someone takes out loans against a house and forges the signature of the co-owner what is likely to happen? Is the co-owner liable for the loans even if they knew nothing about it?

You asking hypothetically?

No but am rather concerned for the innocent party. I have suggested they see a solicitor but they don't think it is necessary, they are in shock however

The co owner will never be liable. The police treat the financial institution as the victim, but most people would agree that your friend is also the victim. Their credit rating will be harmed.

Thanks for that - I will pass it on - the person concerned is probably going to be left with nothing as there will be no equity in the house etc. I am assuming the forged cheques will mean prosecution? The cheques were from someone else's account. If this all sounds rather vague it is because I don't want to give too much away in case the circumstances are recognised

That's up to the police and the CPS. If they believe the offence is sufficiently serious to warrant prosecution and there is enough evidence to secure a conviction they will prosecute.

prh47 - it was a lot of money but thanks for your info.