Quiet Title Action Attorney in San Diego, California

The Law Office of David J. Hollander is a trusted resource in matters of real estate law, including the handling and litigating quiet title actions. Attorney David J. Hollander brings his depth of knowledge and experience to every case, providing clients with the guidance and representation they need when faced with issues concerning their property's title. 

When you're ready to speak with a quiet title action attorney about your options, reach out to the Law Office of David J. Hollander in San Diego, California. The firm works with individuals and businesses throughout San Diego County.  

What Is a Quite Title Action?

A quiet title action, as handled by Attorney Hollander, is a legal procedure used to establish or settle the title to a property. It's often initiated when there's a disagreement on the title, aiming to remove any claim or objection to the title and thus resulting in a clear title.  

Common Uses of Quiet Title Actions

Quiet title actions come into play under several common circumstances. Here are some common uses: 

• Resolving Disputes Over Ownership: Following the death of a property owner, disputes may arise over the rightful heir. A quiet title action can help establish or settle the ownership. 

• Removing Lienholders: Once a mortgage is fully paid off, lienholders should no longer have a claim to the property. If their interest isn't properly dealt with, a quiet title action can remove them. 

• Clearing the Title to an Unoccupied Property: If a property has been vacant for an extended period, there may be unknown claims against it. A quiet title action can clear these up, allowing for a clean purchase. 

• Conveying Title in Cases of Adverse Possession: If someone occupies a property they don't legally own with the intent to claim ownership, a quiet title action can convey the title to them. 

• Resolving Easement and Boundary Disputes: When there are disagreements about land access imposed by an easement or disputed property lines, a quiet title action can resolve these issues. 

David J. Hollander stands ready to assist clients with these critical issues. He offers a wealth of experience in boundary dispute litigation, survey reviews, license agreements, and, of course, handling quiet title actions.  

Whether it's providing guidance, investigating the details of the case, outlining strategies, or even litigating the issue in court if necessary, Hollander's knowledge has proven invaluable for his San Diego County clients. 

How Does the Process Work?

A successful quiet title action provides the plaintiff with full possession of the property and protection from further claims of ownership. However, it's important to note that it may not give the new owner the same level of protection against the previous owner, and it may not clear up all issues with the title. 

Here's how the quiet title action process typically works: 

1. Identification of Issue: The first step is recognizing that there's a disagreement or ambiguity regarding the title of a property. This could be due to several reasons such as disputes over ownership following the death of the owner, issues with mortgage lenders, unoccupied properties, adverse possession cases, or easement and boundary disputes. 

2. Consultation With a Real Estate Attorney: Once the issue is identified, it's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable real estate attorney like David J. Hollander. He can provide essential advice on whether a quiet title action is the appropriate course of action. 

3. Obtaining a Copy of the Deed: The next step involves obtaining an official copy of the deed to the property. This document serves as a crucial piece of evidence in the case. 

4. Drafting the Complaint: With the help of the attorney, the claimant drafts a complaint detailing the nature of the issue and why they believe they have the rightful claim to the property. 

5. Filing the Suit: The complaint is then filed with the appropriate court, initiating the quiet title action. 

6. Court Proceedings: A judge reviews the case, considering the evidence and arguments presented. The process can take anywhere from 30 days to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the court's backlog. 

7. Judgment, or Court Order: If the court rules in favor of the plaintiff, a judgment, or court order is issued, effectively "quieting" any competing claims, and establishing the plaintiff as the legal owner of the property. 

8. Protective Post-Judgment Actions: Following a successful quiet title action, the plaintiff, and their heirs gain full possession of the property. However, it's important to note that this may not provide complete protection against the previous owner or clear up all issues with the title. 

9. Obtain Title Insurance: To safeguard against any potential legal defects, obtaining title insurance can be a wise decision following a quiet title action. 

What About Costs?

The cost of a quiet title action can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the state and complexity of your claim. While this might seem steep, the investment is worth it when you consider the security that comes with knowing your property's title is clear.  

In the event that someone chooses to fight a quiet title action, they would need to produce a deed and other evidence proving superior title and that the claim is invalid or mistaken. Sometimes, the defendant may countersue to recover a share of the property's value. This is why it's crucial to have an experienced attorney like David J. Hollander on your side no matter how straightforward or complex your case my seem.