Legal Question in Personal Injury in California

Risk to Personal Assets

We are registered Domestic Partners in California purchasing a new car and obtaining $500,000/$1,000,000 in Liability insurance. One of us has substantially more personal assets than the other. In the event of a law suit, will those higher assets be better �protected� if the car is registered only in the name of the person with less personal assets?

Thank you.


Asked on 1/11/06, 1:53 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Jonathan Stein Law Offices of Jonathan G. Stein

Re: Risk to Personal Assets

You may both be responsible, however, I do have to give you the caveat that I have not seen any cases dealing with this yet. I assume that since you will have the same rights and responsibilities as any other married couple, liability will flow to both of you. Based on that, you should consider an extra $1,000,000 liability umbrella. It should cost you between $200 and $300 and will provide added piece of mind. With that much insurance, you should be protected. Read this for more information: http://www.calpiblog.com/2005/10/why_cant_we_all.html

If you would like a free consultation regarding your insurance needs, please contact my office. As a former insurance adjuster, I can provide a unique insight to you.

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Answered on 1/13/06, 11:08 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: Risk to Personal Assets

The auto would be considered community property -- i.e. owned by both of you. You are responsible for each other's debts. With additional rights come additional responsibilities. You are wise to obtain a large insurance policy.

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Answered on 1/13/06, 4:35 pm


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