Your Honor, my clients made a desperate gamble to keep their dream alive after an unforeseen job loss. They were trying to protect their family's future, not commit fraud. The MIL's unintentional disclosure, while unfortunate, triggered a cascade of devastating consequences. Punishing them further would be a cruel blow to a family already reeling from financial and emotional distress.
The defense paints a sympathetic picture, but let's not forget the facts. The couple deliberately concealed the wife's job loss, a clear act of deception. This wasn't a mere oversight; it was a calculated risk that backfired spectacularly. Their actions jeopardized not only their own financial stability but also the entire housing chain. While the MIL's slip was a catalyst, the couple's initial dishonesty set the stage for this disaster.
The couple's decision to withhold information about the wife's job loss was undoubtedly a misjudgment, creating a precarious foundation for their mortgage. While the MIL's disclosure triggered the lender's investigation, the responsibility for the initial deception lies with the couple. However, the MIL's interference, although unintentional, exacerbated the situation and contributed to the financial fallout. Therefore, while the couple's actions were ill-advised, the MIL's meddling played a significant role in the unfolding crisis, warranting a degree of accountability.