What Can I Do If My School Wasn’t Accredited and Committed Fraud?

Question from jimbo, What Can I Do If My School Wasn’t Accredited and Committed Fraud?

Answer from AI:

If you attended a school that falsely claimed to be accredited and the owner was convicted of wire fraud, you may have several options to address your situation. This can include seeking relief from student debt and exploring legal remedies. Here’s a general overview of steps you might consider:

Understanding the Situation

When a school falsely claims accreditation and commits fraud, it can have serious consequences for students, including:

• Invalid college credits
• Unrecognized degrees
• Student loan debt for non-qualifying education

In your case, the owner of the school was convicted of wire fraud for illegally accepting money from the Department of Education. This means the school was engaging in fraudulent activities, which can impact your ability to transfer credits or get a refund.

Steps to Take

Here are some steps you can consider:

1. Contact the Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education has a process for handling cases of fraud. You can file a complaint and seek guidance on how to proceed. Visit the Department of Education’s website for more information.
2. Explore Borrower Defense to Repayment: This is a federal program that allows students to seek loan forgiveness if they were defrauded by their school. You can find more information and apply through the Federal Student Aid website.
3. Consult with a Legal Professional: Given the complexity of your situation, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in education law or consumer protection. They can provide personalized advice and help you understand your legal options.
4. Check State Resources: Some states have their own programs and resources for students affected by fraudulent schools. Contact your state’s higher education agency for more information.
5. Review the Waiver: Carefully review the waiver you signed with the new school. An attorney can help you understand its implications and whether it can be contested.

Legal Considerations

Several laws and regulations may be relevant to your situation:

• Higher Education Act: This federal law governs the administration of federal student aid programs and includes provisions for borrower defense to repayment.
• Consumer Protection Laws: Both federal and state consumer protection laws may provide remedies for fraud and deceptive practices.
• Case Law: Previous court cases involving fraudulent schools can provide precedents that may be relevant to your situation.

When to Seek Legal Advice

Given the potential complexity and impact of your situation, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. An attorney can help you:

• Understand your rights and options
• Navigate the process of seeking loan forgiveness or other remedies
• Determine if the waiver you signed can be challenged

Resources

Here are some resources that may be helpful:

• U.S. Department of Education
• Federal Student Aid – Borrower Defense to Repayment
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Remember, while this information provides a general overview, it’s important to consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.