Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Joint tenancy vs. Tennants in Common

My ex-husband and I own a home

together. We live in CA (a community

property state). He is remarrying. If

he divorces this woman some day,

does she have any claim to his half of

the house? Is it better to remain as

Joint Tenants or switch to Tenants in

Common?


Asked on 6/18/09, 3:34 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

David Gibbs The Gibbs Law Firm, APC

Re: Joint tenancy vs. Tennants in Common

As Joint Tenants with right of survivorship, when you ex-husband passes away, his half interest in the property will transfer to you by operation of law. I doubt that is his intention, unless that was the agreement as a part of your divorce settlement. If the intention is for his 1/2 interest to be transferred to his new wife, or his children or anyone other than you, then you do need to change vesting to Tenants in Common, which would allow him to will his 1/2 interest to whomever he wants. I would strongly suggest that you have the entire matter reviewed by an attorney as there are a lot of additional facts necessary to provide you with proper legal advice on your particular situation.

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Answered on 6/18/09, 3:45 pm


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