What if the car was just had his name on the title
Whose name? The decedent's? It would pass under the will or, if no will, based upon state law, most likely to the surviving spouse.
Folks,
There is no "fraud" in mom giving the vehicle to the son. Nor is she, by doing so, risking dismissal of her case assuming she discloses the transfer on question 10 of the Statement of Financial Affairs. She is not giving away the vehicle with an intent to hinder, delay or defraud anyone. It is simply a gift.
The problem is the lack of consideration. The transfer, if not done for fair consideration, can be set aside by the Chapter 7 Trustee under 11 USC 548. Before a Trustee will exercise such a right he/she will investigate. If the vehicle truly was worthless at the time of the transfer as a gift, the Trustee may simply let it slide. If the Trustee wants to make a few bucks but really does not want the vehicle he may "suggest" that mom (to protect the son), kick in a few bucks to the bk estate.
Mom needs to understand all of the ramifications of gifting the vehicle to the son on the eve of filing bk. It may or may not be an issue but as long as she is properly informed of what could happen, she will, in the end, make an informed decision/choice.
Des.