Attorney fees for even the most simple of partition actions could exceed $5,000. Even if the partition lawsuit is uncontested, there are many steps and lots of paperwork, which requires a significant amount of attorney time. And if the matter is contested or complicated, costs can exceed $15,000 or even $20,000.
How to Stop a Partition Action Forced Appraised Buyout under the Partition of Real Property Act (previously the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act) ... Request Determination of Offsets and Reimbursements. Challenging a Plaintiff's Ownership Interest (Standing to Bring a Partition Action) ... Waiver of Right to Partition.
A Partition is generally a no-fault proceeding, meaning there are generally no defenses that an owner can raise. One exception is if the owners have waived their right to Partition. A waiver may be verbal, implied, or written. A Partition action should be filed with the assistance of an experienced attorney.
The right to partition can be waived if the correct agreement is executed. Whether to have such an agreement…the pros and cons…can only be grasped by understanding the basics of the right to partition property in California.
The right of first refusal allows co-owners who wish to retain the property a fair opportunity to do so, potentially avoiding a forced sale. This could lead to more amicable resolutions in partition disputes.