Talkov Law’s attorneys serving Tulare 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 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- What is a partition action and when is it necessary?
- What is the timeline for a California partition action? Most partition actions are resolved in 3 to 6 months by way of settlement. Other cases can take 6 to 12 months to obtain an interlocutory judgment of partition, which generally appoints a referee to sell the property.
- What are the potential outcomes of a partition action? The most likely outcome in a partition action is that the plaintiff receives fair value for their interest in the property either through a sale to a third party or to the defendant. In rare cases, a property can be divided, through this is not applicable to single family residences with no surplus land.
Visalia is a city located in the Central Valley of California, about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. It is the county seat of Tulare County and the economic hub of the region. Visalia is known for its agricultural production, particularly of citrus fruits, and is home to a number of large companies, including the world’s largest raisin producer. The city is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. Visalia is a great place to live, work, and play, with plenty of outdoor activities, shopping, and dining options.
Speak to Our Visalia Partition Attorneys Today
Call our Tulare County Partition Attorneys today to end your co-ownership dispute. You don’t pay until the house is sold!
Call us at (559) 777-5500 or contact us below to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation
Elbert, Limited v. Clare – Partition Action Case Study
In the legal case of Elbert, Limited v. Clare, 40 Cal.2d 498 (1953), the issue was whether a partition of real property could be made without the consent of all the owners. Elbert, Limited, owned a parcel of real property with two other owners, Clare and another individual. Elbert, Limited sought to partition the property, but Clare refused to consent to the partition. Elbert, Limited argued that the partition could be made without Clare’s consent, while Clare argued that the partition could not be made without her consent. The court ultimately held that a partition of real property could not be made without the consent of all the owners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Partitions in Visalia
How Much Does a Partition Action Cost in Visalia?
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 Visalia?
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 Visalia, 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 Visalia?
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 Visalia, County of Tulare, California
Our Visalia 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 (559) 777-5500 or contact us online today.
Serving Areas Throughout California
Fresno, Bakersfield, Hanford, Tulare, Porterville, Dinuba, Reedley, Selma, Kingsburg, Goshen, Ivanhoe, Farmersville, and Exeter
