Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Does Payment for someone else create ownership?

If I make the car payment on an automobile purchased by my live-in girlfriend for two years, use the vehicle as my own during that period, and pay all other related expenses, do I gain an ownership interest in the vehicle? Specifically, if we break up and after 1 1/2 months, I intentionally damage the vehicle described above, am I criminally liable for vandalism or can I inflict the damage legally because I am an ''owner''?


Asked on 9/15/02, 8:03 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
JEB Pickett Wynne Law Firm

Re: Does Payment for someone else create ownership?

All that matters is who's name is on the Title and Registration. If you're not, you have no ownership. Don't damage the car. If the car is already damaged, call your insurance company.

Read more
Answered on 9/15/02, 4:16 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Consumer Law questions and answers in California