Talkov Law’s attorneys serving Los Angeles County are exceptionally experienced in California partition actions and have conducted over 430 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:
- What are the costs associated with a partition action? The costs of a partition action generally involve the attorney’s fees, and court costs, but can involve referee fees and broker’s fees if the property is sold.
- 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 are the grounds for a partition action in California? A co-owner is “entitled to partition as a matter of absolute right,” meaning “he need not assign any reason for his demand; that it is sufficient if he demands a severance; and that when grounds for a sale are duly established it may be demanded as of right. To grant it is not a mere matter of grace.” De Roulet v. Mitchel (1945) 70 Cal.App.2d 120, 123-124.
- In a partition action, can I be reimbursed for paying more than my fair share of the down payment? Yes, partition actions allow for offsets whereby one co-owner claims excess payments for mortgage, taxes, insurance, improvements, repairs and other property expenses
- What are the tax implications of a partition action? It is best to seek the advice of a tax attorney or CPA about tax issues. However, the most common tax issues in partitions, like other sales, can involve capital gains taxes and the potential partial or full reassessment of property taxes.
Palos Verdes Estates is a city located in Los Angeles County, California. It is situated on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The city is known for its rolling hills, lush gardens, and stunning ocean views. It is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the United States, and is a popular destination for celebrities and the wealthy. The city is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and golfing. Palos Verdes Estates is a beautiful and exclusive city that offers its residents a luxurious lifestyle.
Speak to Our Palos Verdes Estates 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
Abarca v. Ferber – Partition Action Case Study
In the legal case of Abarca v. Ferber, 2011 WL 175710, C062049 (20-Jan-2011) , the issue of partition was at the center of the dispute. The plaintiff, Abarca, and the defendant, Ferber, were co-owners of a parcel of real property. Abarca sought to partition the property, while Ferber opposed the partition. The court found that the parties had an implied agreement to partition the property, and that Abarca was entitled to a partition of the property. The court also found that Ferber had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support his claim that the partition would be detrimental to the value of the property. The court ultimately ordered a partition of the property, and ordered Ferber to pay Abarca’s costs and attorney’s fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Partitions in Palos Verdes Estates
How Much Does a Partition Action Cost in Palos Verdes Estates?
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 Palos Verdes Estates?
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 Palos Verdes Estates, 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 Palos Verdes Estates?
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 Palos Verdes Estates, County of Los Angeles, California
Our Palos Verdes Estates 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
