Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

The licence plate to my motorcycle was lost or stolen. I went to the DMV to apply for a new plate. The DMV told me that they could not issue me a new plate because I was not the legal owner of the motorcycle. I told them that there must be some mistake I have the title to my motorcycle right here and showed them the title. They told me that the title that I have doesn't match their records that I must have sold the motorcycle because there is a new owner on record. I told them that I have the motorcycle and that I never signed anything selling my motorcycle. They told me that their was nothing that they could do for me I wasn't the owner of the motorcycle and that it was a civil matter.Somehow this person got my personal information and transferred the title to my motorcycle into their name because I never signed anything releasing ownership of my motorcycle. I don't know what I should do.

Asked on 7/08/14, 10:26 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

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Unfortunately, you are now about to embark on a lawsuit to 'quiet title' to the bike, by suing the 'new' owner for various causes of action, and hope that a judge will believe your evidence. If it is a 'cheap' bike, you might sue in small claims court. If expensive, from $10k and up, you'll have to sue in Superior Court. I suggest you put together all the documentation and evidence you have, then consult with a local attorney for an opinion. Also unfortunately, lawyers and litigation are expensive, so make your decisions after getting an estimate. If serious about hiring counsel to help in this, and if this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me.

Answered on 7/08/14, 1:48 pm

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