Although extreme and rare, people sometimes choose to fake their own deaths. Individuals who fake their own deaths do so for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is to collect on life insurance money. The thought process behind doing something like this typically centers around the idea of having a friend or family member collect on a life insurance policy after the “death,” and then the money is given to the supposedly deceased person. From there, the person will generally plan to leave the country and start a new life abroad.
The Difficulties of Faking Your Death
As easy as it sounds, these types of plans rarely work out. In the United States, deaths and disappearances are often investigated by a number of law enforcement and government organizations, making the task of faking a death difficult. Even if you are able to fool the authorities, the insurance company may choose to conduct its own investigation into the death or disappearance claim. Finally, even if you are able to fool the authorities and the insurance company, you will then have to spend the rest of your life looking over your shoulder, always worrying that you’ll be caught.
Criminal and Civil Penalties
Essentially, faking your own death to receive insurance money is considered insurance fraud. If caught, you can face a multitude of criminal and civil penalties, including jail time. In addition, any money that was paid out to you or a loved one by the insurance company will have to be paid back, and you will typically have to pay restitution to any entities involved in investigating your death. You may also face legal issues with anyone that you’ve conducted business with after your “death”, as your business dealings may also be considered fraudulent as you used an assumed identity.
Speak with a Lawyer for More Information
According to our Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyer, if you have been accused of insurance fraud, whether due to faking your own death or other circumstances, you should seek out an attorney who specializes in these cases, can examine the facts of your case and offer you a defense strategy to eliminate or lessen your penalties. Your attorney can also communicate with your insurance company and the authorities for you, and if you end up in court, they can represent your interests before a jury.
If you’re considering faking your own death to collect insurance money, or if you have already begun the process of faking your own life, you may want to think twice. As mentioned, the penalties for carrying out such an act can be severe, and you will have to live the rest of your life in fear of being captured and brought to justice. In addition, almost everyone who is involved in faking your death will ultimately be punished if you are caught. If you’re having a difficult time financially, please remember that there are a number of organizations available to assist you, including charities and faith-based organizations. You may also want to speak with a lending institution to discuss short and long-term loan options to help you through whatever financial problems you are facing at the moment.
Katie Hewatt is a legal researcher and contributing writer for Attorney Robert Malove, a Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyer, who is a board certified expert. Attorney Malove will determine the best strategy for your case no matter what your criminal charges might be.
Katie Hewatt
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