Tampa Title Fraud Attorneys 

Establishing Rightful Property Ownership in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco & Sarasota Counties 

Title fraud, a crime in which scammers forge or manipulate ownership records to steal property or equity, has become increasingly common.

Florida’s lucrative real estate market has become a hotspot for such fraudulent activities. Property owners often have no way of knowing they're victims until it's too late. “I knew nobody was going to be notified,” says one conman who defrauded more than 100 property owners in Florida by forging property titles.

If you’re dealing with the fallout of fraudulent activity on your property, do not wait to secure legal guidance. Our Tampa title fraud lawyers can help you reclaim control, untangle the complexities of title disputes, and work toward a resolution that protects your property rights.

At Burnett Law, we’re committed to helping you resolve title fraud. Reach out now at (813) 491-8272 or through our online contact form to get started.

What Is Title Fraud? 

Title fraud occurs when fraudsters unlawfully claim ownership of a property by manipulating its title. This type of crime leverages administrative vulnerabilities, using forged documents, stolen identities, or deception to convince authorities or financial institutions of fraudulent claims. Below are common types of title fraud: 

• Identity Theft. Criminals use stolen identities to pose as property owners or buyers. They may create fake IDs or fabricate records to transfer ownership or secure loans against someone else’s property. 
• Forgery. Fraudsters engage in forgery by creating fake deeds or altering critical documents to manipulate property ownership. They often use counterfeit notary stamps, fabricated seals, or falsified signatures to make the documents appear legitimate.
• Deed Scams. Deed scams involve scammers tricking property owners into unknowingly signing fraudulent documents, often under the guise of offering financial relief, foreclosure assistance, or other services. Victims may only discover the scam when it's too late and they’re losing their homes.
• Mortgage Fraud. Mortgage fraud occurs when fraudsters falsify mortgage documents to secure loans they wouldn't otherwise qualify for. This can involve providing fake income statements, altered credit reports, or forged identification documents. In many cases, property owners are left responsible for debt they never agreed to. 
• Public Record Errors. Fraudsters can exploit errors in public records. For example, a typo in a property deed could allow a scammer to falsely claim ownership of someone else's home.

The consequences of title fraud can rip through the lives of its victims. Homeowners may lose their property or see their credit ruined by fraudulent debts. Instead of enjoying homeownership, individuals who unknowingly purchase properties with flawed titles can find themselves stuck in legal quagmires.

Getting legal support from Burnett Law can be vital in mitigating the damages caused by title fraud. Our attorneys are ready to help you tackle these challenges and guide you toward a favorable resolution.

What to Do If You’ve Been Hit with Title Fraud 

If you believe you’re a victim of title fraud, taking swift, informed action is critical. Your specific role in the situation—whether as the property owner or as someone who unknowingly purchased a fraudulent title—will determine the course of action you should take.

For Property Owners