Talkov Law’s attorneys serving Alameda County are exceptionally experienced in California partition actions and have conducted over 400 partitions for our satisfied clients. California partition actions provide a legal mechanism for co-owners of real property to divide the property among themselves. The partition statutes allow a co-owner to file a lawsuit in court to have the property divided, either physically or by sale. The court will then order the division of the property in a way that is fair and equitable to all parties. The partition statutes also provide that any proceeds from the sale of the property must be divided among the co-owners in proportion to their respective interests in the property.
Our team of partition attorneys can assist co-owners with frequently asked questions about partitions, such as:
- Can you lose interest in a jointly owned home by moving out? Generally, co-owners maintain their ownership interests regardless of whether they live at the property. However, in rare cases, leaving the property for many years without paying taxes or other expenses may allow the co-owners in possession to argue that they have adversely possessed the property. Generally, these co-ownership disputes do not get easier with time, so it is important to act promptly.
- What is the timeline for a California partition action? Most partition actions are resolved in 3 to 6 months by way of settlement. Other cases can take 6 to 12 months to obtain an interlocutory judgment of partition, which generally appoints a referee to sell the property.
- What is a partition action and when is it necessary?
- Can we negotiate a settlement instead of going through a partition action? We find that the best solution is to file the partition action, then negotiate a settlement. Defendants often reach a more reasonable settlement when they are being advised by a partition attorney who will explain that the plaintiff is very likely to obtain the sale of the property.
- How long will it take to get the property partitioned and sold? Most commonly, 3 to 6 months is all that it takes for the defendant to agree to a sale or buyout the plaintiff’s interest in the property for a fair value. Some cases may take 6 to 12 months.
Albany is a city located in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area in California. It is a small city with a population of around 19,000 people. Albany is known for its vibrant downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city is also home to the University of California, Berkeley, and is a popular destination for students and faculty. Albany is a great place to live, work, and play, with its close proximity to San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley.
Speak to Our Albany Partition Attorneys Today
Call our Alameda County Partition Attorneys today to end your co-ownership dispute. You don’t pay until the house is sold!
Call us at (510) 999-3300 or contact us below to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation
Polk v. Polk – Partition Action Case Study
In the legal case of Polk v. Polk, 2009 WL 2614292, A119043, A122220, A120366, A120512 (26-Aug-2009), the partition issues revolved around the division of a family-owned property. The property in question was owned by the Polk family, and the dispute was between two siblings, Robert and Mary Polk. Robert and Mary had inherited the property from their parents, and the dispute arose when Robert wanted to sell the property and Mary wanted to keep it. The court had to decide how to divide the property between the two siblings. The court ultimately decided to partition the property, meaning that the property would be divided into two separate parts, with each sibling receiving one part. The court also ordered that the proceeds from the sale of the property would be divided equally between the two siblings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Partitions in Albany
How Much Does a Partition Action Cost in Albany?
The costs of a partition action—including attorney fees, court fees, appraiser fees, and other legal expenses—are typically around $20,000. While some cases may incur fees as low as $5,000 or exceed $20,000, depending on their complexity, these expenses are generally shared among the co-owners. The court may also adjust the distribution of these costs based on each party’s level of involvement or responsibility, ensuring a fairer allocation when needed.
Who Can File a Partition Action in Albany?
A partition action can be filed by any co-owner of a property, excluding married couples who own it as community property. A majority ownership is not required to initiate a partition action. Common situations for partition actions include disputes among siblings inheriting property, former romantic partners, friends or family members who purchased property together, and divorced couples.
Who Pays for a Partition Action?
In Albany, each party typically pays for their own attorney’s fees (known as the “American Rule”). However, California partition law allows for an exception to this rule, stating that “the court shall apportion the costs of partition among the parties in proportion to their interests or make such other apportionment as may be equitable.” California Code of Civil Procedure 874.040. Indeed, the court may award “reasonable attorney’s fees incurred or paid by a party for the common benefit.” California Code of Civil Procedure 874.010(a).
Can a Partition Action Be Stopped in Albany?
Generally, a partition action cannot be stopped, but a defendant may be able to buy time to seek a resolution. Eventually, however, the plaintiff can generally force the sale of the property based on the absolute right to partition.
Contact our Team of Experienced Partition Lawyers Serving the City of Albany, County of Alameda, California
Our Albany partition litigation attorneys will work diligently to obtain a favorable outcome on your behalf, whether by negotiation or litigation. Talkov Law Partition Attorneys unlocks access to justice for co-owners by funding your case. For qualified cases, you pay no fees until we successfully partition your property by obtaining a sale on the market or to your co-owner! For a free consultation with California’s first and largest team of partition attorneys at Talkov Law, call (510) 999-3300 or contact us online today.
Serving Areas Throughout California
San Francisco Bay Area, Berkeley, El Cerrito, Richmond, Emeryville, Oakland, and Kensington
