The actual time it takes from when a partition case is filed to when the land is partitioned physically, by sale, or by set-off varies from case to case. In general, partition cases can take several months or even years to resolve.
Previously, the partition law in California permitted any co-owner of a property to force a sale, often to the detriment of other owners. The new amendments, however, introduce a right of first refusal.
The duration of civil litigation varies depending on the complexity of the case, court backlog, and whether a settlement is reached. Some cases can be resolved in a few months, while others may take several years to conclude.
Here is an overview on how a partition action will play out in court. The party who wishes to initiate the action (the “Plaintiff”) must file a verified complaint for partition. The court will first determine the ownership interests of each of the co-owners.
How Long Does a Partition Action Take? While most lawsuits in California are supposed to take two years or more, there are a number of steps that an experienced partition lawyer can take to ensure that a partition action takes in less time.
If negotiation or mediation fails to resolve the dispute, the next step is to prepare and file a partition complaint. You have to file the Complaint in the Superior Court of California for the County where the Property is located. This is the only court with the power to hear the case.
The California Law Civil Procedure Code section 872.210 states anyone who wants to dissolve ownership that is jointly owned with another person has a legal right to sell his/her interest if desired. Eligibility for Partitions are: Inheritance that is usually family members who inherit real and personal property.
You may respond to the complaint with a general denial or a specific denial. A specific denial responds to each allegation in the complaint individually. A general denial contains a blanket statement that all allegations in the complaint are denied.