Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

Re: Should my name be on the title to his house also?

I want to tell you a little story. I have a client who is 71 last week and previously married a women in her late 40's. Prior to the marriage he put $450,000 into her house, because she said that after they were married, he should sell his house and move in with her and she will take care of him for the rest of his life.

The marriage lasted as long as the remodeling, and when he came home one night his clothes were on the front lawn.

He was smart enough to become part owner of her house, and she slipped him another deed, which he signed the property back to her.

It is still a mess.

Although you can request that your name be added on to the title, you should also have a separate agreement that in case something happens to your relationship he would have to repay you the money you invested in the house, with interest, and if he couldn't afford it than the house should be sold.

Better yet, don't invest any mones in a man/woman, when you are not marriage relationship.

Being on the deed, is not like being on the mortgage. Never become a signature on a mortgage - anyone who did this in your situation doesn't need a lawyer - go directly to the psychiatrist.

If you would like further information, please feel free to contact me.