Scott Talkov

What Happens if One Co-owner Wants to Live in the Property?

When one co-owner wants to live in a property and the other does not, a partition action is the ultimate legal solution to resolve disputes over possession, expenses, and fairness. In California, uncooperative co-owners generally have equal rights to occupy the entire property, but that doesn’t mean one can live there without consequences. Equal Right … Read More

What is a Default Judgment in a Partition Action?

A default partition judgment allows the court to order the sale of the property without the absent co-owner’s involvement. When a co-owner files a partition action and the other party refuses to respond, the case moves forward. Co-owners have an absolute right to partition under California law. Whether the other party engages or not, the … Read More

Can I Partition an Investment Property?

Yes. In California, you can file a partition action to force the sale of jointly owned investment property, even if the other co-owner does not agree. When co-owners of an investment property disagree on whether to sell, refinance, or manage the property, the situation can quickly become frustrating and financially draining.  Fortunately, California law provides … Read More

The Los Angeles Mansion Tax Fractional Interest Loophole

Los Angeles’ controversial “mansion tax,” officially known as Measure ULA, has created substantial confusion for co-owners, buyers of a fractional interest, investors, and parties involved in partition actions. One recurring question is whether the tax applies when only a fractional interest in real property is transferred rather than the entire property. The answer is: generally, … Read More

What Is the Partition of Real Property?

A partition of real property in California is a legal process that allows co-owners to force the sale when they cannot agree. Disagreements over whether to sell, how to use the property, or how to split expenses can quickly turn into serious conflicts. When co-owners reach a deadlock, a partition action is the ultimate legal … Read More

Abandoned Property Partition Action: What to Do When a Co-Owner Walks Away

A co-owner who abandons a property in California does not lose their ownership rights, but their absence often creates financial strain that can be resolved through a partition action.  When one co-owner stops contributing, the remaining co-owner is often left covering the mortgage and upkeep alone. This situation is common among unmarried couples, family members, … Read More

Can You Force a Co-Owner to Buy Your Share?

When co-owners of real estate decide to go their separate ways, a buyout is often the first solution discussed. One party keeps the property and pays the other for their share. However, this only works if the co-owner has the financial ability and is willing to follow through. When the buyout does not happen, many … Read More

What Happens When a Co-Owner Refuses to Communicate About Sale or Buyout? (Partition Actions)

When a co-owner refuses to communicate about selling jointly owned property, California law allows you to force a resolution through a partition action. For the co-owner seeking a resolution, this lack of response can feel like being trapped in a situation with no clear path forward. Why Co-Owners Refuse to Communicate It is common for … Read More

Does a No Contest Clause in a Trust Prevent a Partition?

When a trust beneficiary co-owns inherited property with other beneficiaries, disputes over the property are common. One question that frequently arises is whether a beneficiary who files a partition action to force the sale or division of that property risks triggering a no contest clause buried in the trust. The short answer is: almost certainly … Read More

Co-Owner Can’t Force You to Pay Their Capital Gains Tax in a Partition Sale

Among the more creative arguments in partition action cases is the idea that one co-owner should pay the capital gains taxes of the other co-owner. When co-owned property is sold, especially in a partition action, disputes often arise over who gets what, known as a partition accounting. Usually, these claims about accounting relate to unequal … Read More

Free Consultation

Speak With a Partition Attorney Today

For select matters, payment can be deferred until resolution, with monthly billing also available.

Why Talkov Law

California's First & Most Experienced Partition Firm

  • 600+ partition cases handled — more than any firm in California
  • Free consultation — speak directly with a partition attorney
  • No fee until you win for qualified cases
  • Statewide coverage across all of California

Recognition

Awards & Recognition

As Featured In

ABOVE THE LAW ABA JOURNAL TODAY LA Times THE REAL DEAL ABC7 REDFIN DAILY JOURNAL

From Our Blog

California's Most Comprehensive Partition Law Resource

  • 500+ articles covering every aspect of partition law
  • Written by practicing partition attorneys
  • Trusted by co-owners, attorneys & real estate professionals
  • Updated regularly with new case law & legal developments

Statewide Coverage

Offices Throughout California

The information on this site, including the Talkov Law Blog, is intended for general information purposes only. By using this site, you agree that any information contained in the site does not constitute legal, financial or any other form of professional advice. Information on this site may be changed without notice and is not guaranteed to be complete, accurate, correct or up-to-date.