Legal Question in Banking Law in Virginia

I had a joint checking account with my boyfriend. We were living together (in Virginia, if that matters) and I wasn't happy at my job, so he told me to quit (he made enough to cover the bills). I quit my job, so I didn't contribute any money to this account, but he wanted me to have access to his account, so I could go shopping or whatever. We ended up breaking up, and he would not and still will not meet me to remove my name from the account. I don't want my name on the account, because he is a very spiteful person. If he overdrafts and stops using the account, if will affect me as well...I'm surprised he hasn't already done this! Besides, we are not together anymore, and I want no ties to him. It has been a year and a half now, and I'm tired of being nice. I have called him, text him, emailed him, asking him to meet me, but he simply will not. I have went to the bank, and they said there is no way to remove myself from the account without him signing off on it (so stupid!). So, as my final attempt, I'm thinking about withdrawing like $700 from the account. I'm not going to spend it or anything, (I DON'T WANT HIS MONEY) it's just my final attempt to get him to meet me at the bank. Once he signs my name off the account, I will hand him the cash. So, can I get in trouble (legally) for removing money from our account, under these circumstance?


Asked on 5/09/10, 7:58 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Brianne Sullenger Sullenger Law Office

Although you may not be able to remove your name from the account without his permission, you may likely be able to close the account entirely without his permission. You may want to check with the bank to see if this is possible, and let your ex-boyfriend know your intention to close the account, so he can take the balance and open a new account in his name only.

Disclaimer: The response provided is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The response does not form an attorney-client relationship, and it does not create an ongoing duty to respond to questions.

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Answered on 5/19/10, 1:13 pm


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