While debtors are not specifically banned from spending money prior to filing bankruptcy, a debtor using credit cards before bankruptcy to an extensive degree can trigger suspicion of fraud by the bankruptcy court. Not only can the court dismiss a bankruptcy case for fraud or suspected fraud, but there can be criminal implications, as well. Bankruptcy fraud is a federal crime that carries both substantial fines and potential jail sentences for those who are convicted of the crime. Plus, if the case is not dismissed, the bankruptcy court has the power to set aside, or essentially undo, transfers of assets or money that occur within ninety (90) days of filing bankruptcy, or, if it involves a family member, the bankruptcy court can set aside the transfer if it occurs up to one year prior to the bankruptcy filing.