Talkov Law’s attorneys serving Riverside 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:

• What to expect in a California partition action? Partition actions necessarily resolve the conflict between co-owners through an expedited statutory process. A capable partition attorney will assist in expediting the process and producing the most favorable outcome.
• 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.
• 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.
• What is the average cost of a partition action? The usual cost for a partition action is about $8,000 to $12,000, depending on the complexity. Some cases settle quickly after the defendant receives the partition complaint, while others can drag on longer if there are more complex issues or delay tactics by the defendant.
• 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.

Riverside is a city in Southern California located in the Inland Empire region of the state. It is the county seat of Riverside County and is the 12th most populous city in California. Riverside is known for its historic downtown, the Mission Inn, and the University of California, Riverside. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Fox Performing Arts Center, the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, and the Riverside National Cemetery. The city is also home to a number of parks, including Fairmount Park, Mount Rubidoux, and the Santa Ana River Trail. Riverside is a great place to live, work, and play.