Talkov Law’s attorneys serving San Diego County are exceptionally experienced in California partition actions and have conducted over 400 partitions for our satisfied clients. A California partition action is a law that allows co-owners of real property to divide the property among themselves. The partition statutes provide a legal mechanism for co-owners to divide the property without having to go through the court system. The partition statutes allow co-owners to divide the property either by agreement or by court order. If the co-owners cannot agree on how to divide the property, then the court will divide the property in a way that is fair and equitable to all parties. The partition statutes also provide that any partition of the property must be done in accordance with the laws of the state of California. The legal effect of the partition statutes is that it provides a legal mechanism for co-owners to divide their property without having to go through the court system.
Our team of partition attorneys can assist co-owners with frequently asked questions about partitions, such as:
- What happens to any debts or liens on the property during a partition action? Secured debts are paid from the sale of the property. Secured lenders named in a partition action are generally dismissed with an agreement to pay the mortgage at the time of the sale.
- How long does a partition action take in California?” Most partition actions are complete in 3 to 6 months because most cases settle in either a buyout or agreed sale. However, some cases can drag on for 6 to 12 months.
- How long will it take for the plaintiff to receive his or her share of the sales proceeds? Usually, the property is marketed for sale or purchased by the defendant in 3 to 6 months. If a referee is appointed, that may take 6 to 9 months. With proper drafting of an interlocutory judgment of partition by sale, the referee can be required to disburse the proceeds promptly at the close of escrow or shortly thereafter.
- What is California’s Partition of Real Property Act? Effective January 1, 2023, California’s new partition law allows defendants to buy out the interests of the plaintiff at an appraised value.
- Are there ways to make my partition action less expensive? There are numerous ways to obtain a less expensive partition action in California. For example, having your documents organized can ensure you don’t have to pay your attorney to go through a disorganized mess to get the information they need.
Carlsbad is a coastal city located in San Diego County, California. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning coastal views, and its quaint downtown area. Carlsbad is home to Legoland California, the Flower Fields, and the Carlsbad Village, which is a popular shopping and dining destination. The city is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including golfing, hiking, and biking. Carlsbad is a great place to visit for a relaxing beach vacation or a fun-filled family getaway.
Speak to Our Carlsbad Partition Attorneys Today
Call our San Diego County Partition Attorneys today to end your co-ownership dispute. You don’t pay until the house is sold!
Call us at (760) 999-3300 or contact us below to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation
Formosa Corp. v. Rogers – Partition Action Case Study
In the legal case of Formosa Corp. v. Rogers, 108 Cal.App.2d 397 (1951), the issue of partition was at the center of the dispute. The case involved a dispute between two shareholders of a corporation, Formosa Corporation, over the ownership of certain real property. The plaintiff, Formosa Corporation, sought to partition the property, while the defendant, Rogers, argued that the property was owned by the corporation and not subject to partition. The court ultimately held that the property was owned by the corporation and not subject to partition. The court reasoned that the property was held in trust for the benefit of the corporation and its shareholders, and that the shareholders had no right to partition the property. The court also noted that the corporation had the right to manage and control the property, and that the shareholders had no right to interfere with the corporation’s management of the property.
Frequently Asked Questions About Partitions in Carlsbad
How Much Does a Partition Action Cost in Carlsbad?
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 Carlsbad?
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 Carlsbad, 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 Carlsbad?
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 Carlsbad, County of San Diego, California
Our Carlsbad 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 (760) 999-3300 or contact us online today.
Talkov Law San Diego Office
11622 El Camino Real Ste 100
San Diego, CA 92130
Phone: (858) 800-3300
Serving Areas Throughout California
San Marcos, Vista, Oceanside, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, Escondido, and La Costa