Interlocutory Judgment Archives

Is Waiver a Defense Under the Partition of Real Property Act?

The enactment of the Partition of Real Property Act has introduced an interesting legal question regarding whether a waiver of partition may be implied when tenants in common are subject to the Act. This issue is particularly relevant given that partition rights are generally considered absolute unless expressly waived by an enforceable agreement. The Partition … Read More

Why Partition Referees Are Essential in a Partition Action

For many co-owners facing a partition action, the idea of a court-appointed partition referee can seem intimidating. Some fear that a referee will unfairly take sides, undervalue the property, or create unnecessary delays in the sale process. In reality, partition referees are intended to be neutral professionals whose primary role is to ensure a fair … Read More

How to Piece Together a Property’s Title History

A property’s title history reveals its ownership trail, liens, and any disputes or irregularities that might affect your rights as the new owner. When purchasing or investing in real property, understanding its title history is crucial. Why is a Property’s Legal Title Important? Legal title is important because Evidence Code § 662 provides that: “The … Read More

Why is a Partition Action Needed?

A partition is often necessary because joint property ownership can swiftly transform from harmonious cohabitation to contentious disputes. Whether it’s the dissolution of a romantic partnership, irreconcilable differences in investment strategies, or disagreements over property usage, many co-owners find themselves looking for ways to end their co-ownership of real property. In such scenarios, where one … Read More

How to Get a Default Judgment in Partition Action

When defendants in a partition action ignore the summons and complaint, the plaintiff is entitled to obtain a default judgment ordering that the property be partitioned, usually by a forced sale. Indeed, some co-owners fail to respond to attempts to discuss the use, management, or sale of the property. When this occurs out of court, … Read More

Affirmative Defenses Partition Action California Attorney Lawyer

Affirmative Defenses to a Partition Action in California

How Do You Beat a Partition Action? Experienced partition attorneys in California are often asked whether there are affirmative defenses to a partition under California law. Of course, every defendant wants to win a partition action. While some people may refer to these as affirmative defenses, it might be best to look them as ways … Read More

Will a Partition Sale Yield Fair Market Value for a Property?

Sometimes, co-owners wonder if their co-owned property will be sold for fair market value in a partition action, or whether the process will result in a below market sales price. There are many reasons that partition action sales conducted by a partition referee will generally result in the property being sold for fair market value, … Read More

SB 9 Lot Splits in a Partition Action

Prior to California’s enactment of SB 9, also known as the California HOME Act, a single-family home in a partition action would almost certainly be sold since division of the property would not be allowed under zoning laws requiring certain lot sizes. However, SB 9, which became effective in 2022, mandates that cities approve certain … Read More

Code of Civil Procedure § 874.140 (CCP) – Judgment for Unpaid Costs; Enforcement (Partition Action)

California Code of Civil Procedure 874.140 is the California partition statute that addresses how a judgment can be collected from a party in a partition action. The statute provides that: A judgment for unpaid costs of partition may be enforced by the person entitled to the costs in the manner provided for enforcement of money judgments … Read More

Code of Civil Procedure 874.130 CCP – Sale for Benefit of Lien Claimants (Costs of Partition)

California Code of Civil Procedure 874.130 is the California partition statute that gives the court the authority to order a judgment for the benefit of lien claimants after a partition. The statute provides that: Upon application of a person entitled to a lien imposed under this article and upon a showing of good cause, the … Read More