Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey

When my ex-husband & I divorced in January 2003, the property settlement agreement allowed me possession of 2 American Kennel Club dogs that we owned together. I was responsible for all vet care, upkeep, etc. He was to maintain ownership until such time as one of the dogs was used for stud. Then he was "entitled" to a puppy and would sign ownership of both dogs over to me. Fast forward to today when I received a letter from his attorney in which he is laying claim to a puppy from a frozen semen artificial insemination litter produced my frozen sperm, which I own, from one of the dogs we co-owned who has been deceased since 2009. Would this scumbag's interest in the dog still exist even though 1) the dog is deceased; 2) he can't sign over ownership of a deceased dog and 3) I own the sperm? Also the settlement agreement made no mention of him receiving a puppy for free; just that he was "entitled" to one. Well hell, entitled doesn't mean he gets it for free, does it?


Asked on 3/30/12, 9:09 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

This is not a real property [which means related to land/real estate] question.

Consult with your divorce lawyer to help interpret the meaning of your property settlement agreement and what kind of response you should make to the letter. Since the letter came from your ex's attorney, you should definitely have your own attorney. Your attorney should immediately notify the ex's attorney that you are represented and that all communication should be through your lawyer, and no communication by his lawyer directly with you.

THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 3/31/12, 8:25 am


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