Malibu Real Estate Partition Lawyer
Talkov Law’s attorneys serving Los Angeles County are exceptionally experienced in California partition actions and have conducted over 470 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 awarding each co-owner a certain percentage of the property’s value. The court will then order the property to be divided according to the co-owners’ wishes. The partition statutes also provide that if the court finds that a physical division of the property is not possible, it may order the property to be sold and the proceeds divided among the co-owners.
Our team of partition attorneys can assist co-owners with frequently asked questions about partitions, such as:
- 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.
- 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.
- Can I be forced into selling a jointly owned house? Under California’s Partition of Real Property Act, a co-owner will have a right to buyout the property. However, absent a buy out at the appraised price, a plaintiff will likely be able to force the sale of a jointly owned house.
- When is a partition action right for my dispute? Generally, parties who can reach their own resolution of a co-ownership dispute are not reading websites about partition law. If you are reading this article, chances are that your co-ownership dispute has reached a level where legal options are being considered. Filing a partition action will bring about a certain result to the co-ownership dispute, rather than letting it linger for years on end. However, if the parties are very close to a settlement, it may be wise to consider a resolution.
- How does a partition action work in California?
Malibu is a beach city located in Los Angeles County, California. It is known for its Mediterranean climate, its 21 miles of coastline, and its celebrity residents. Malibu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Zuma Beach, Surfrider Beach, and El Matador State Beach. It is also home to many upscale restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Malibu is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of activities such as surfing, swimming, hiking, and horseback riding.
Speak to Our Malibu Partition Attorneys Today
Call our Los Angeles County Partition Attorneys today to end your co-ownership dispute. You don’t pay until the house is sold!
Call us at (310) 496-3300 or contact us below to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation
Kraft v. Krausch – Partition Action Case Study
In the legal case of Kraft v. Krausch, 2003 WL 22430209, C043271 (27-Oct-2003) , is a legal case involving a dispute over the partition of a parcel of real property. The dispute arose when the parties, Kraft and Krausch, were unable to agree on the terms of a partition agreement. Kraft argued that the parcel should be divided into two equal parts, while Krausch argued that the parcel should be divided into three parts, with two parts going to Kraft and one part going to Krausch. The court ultimately ruled in favor of Kraft, finding that the parcel should be divided into two equal parts. The court also found that Krausch was not entitled to any additional compensation for his share of the parcel. The case highlights the importance of parties coming to an agreement on the terms of a partition agreement before taking the matter to court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Partitions in Malibu
How Much Does a Partition Action Cost in Malibu?
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 Malibu?
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 Malibu, 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 Malibu?
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 Malibu, County of Los Angeles, California
Our Malibu 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 (310) 496-3300 or contact us online today.
Talkov Law Los Angeles Office
10880 Wilshire Blvd Ste 1101
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Phone: (310) 496-3300
