The courts in New York State instituted a new rule yesterday that would require bank lawyers to ensure that their clients’ filings in foreclosure cases are accurate and honest. This requirement enlists the help of lawyers–who are not just advocates, but also officers of the court–in the effort to protect the integrity of the courts in the face of widespread fraud.
Effective immediately, lawyers representing the plaintiffs in residential foreclosure actions must file signed affirmations that they took “reasonable” steps to verify the accuracy of the underlying documents.
The form affirmation may be found here at the New York State Unified Court System website.
