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Fraudulent Bankruptcy: Commentary on the Judgment of the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section V, No. 28257 of 2023

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section V, No. 28257 of June 30, 2023, provides significant insights into the legal challenges related to fraudulent bankruptcy. In particular, the case examined involves M. M., accused of fraudulent bankruptcy through documentation during her management of a company later declared bankrupt. The decision of the Court of Cassation is based on a thorough reflection on the requirements of intent and the responsibility of managers.

Context and Development of the Judgment

The Court of Appeal of Florence had upheld the conviction of M. M., excluding the contested aggravating circumstance and imposing a sentence of two years of imprisonment. However, the grounds for appeal raised by the defendant highlighted motivational flaws and violations of law, calling for a reevaluation of her responsibility. In particular, the defense argued that M. M. had not taken into account the accounting irregularities, attributing the management to third parties.

Criminal liability cannot be established solely based on the position held.

Intent in Fraudulent Bankruptcy

A key point that emerged from the ruling is the necessity to demonstrate specific intent in the configuration of fraudulent bankruptcy. The Court reiterated that, for this crime to be established, it is essential to ascertain a deliberate conduct aimed at preventing the reconstruction of the company's assets. The ruling emphasized that the mere state of the accounting records is not sufficient to prove the defendant's responsibility; it is necessary to demonstrate the defendant's awareness of the accounting irregularities.

  • The distinction between fraudulent bankruptcy and simple bankruptcy is crucial for assessing liability.
  • Abdication of supervisory duties must be accompanied by the representation of the possibility of fraud.
  • The judge must provide adequate reasoning regarding the administrator's knowledge of the accounting situation.

Conclusion

The ruling of the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section V, No. 28257 of 2023, represents an important step forward in the jurisprudence on bankruptcy. It clarifies that liability for fraudulent bankruptcy cannot be automatic and requires specific evidence of intent. This approach not only protects the rights of managers acting in good faith but also reinforces the need for stringent oversight in company management. The Court annulled the contested ruling, remanding the case for a new trial, which offers the opportunity for a more careful evaluation of the evidence and responsibilities.