San Diego Partition & Property Dispute Lawyers
Property disputes can arise in countless ways, from disagreements between co-owners about what to do with a property to boundary conflicts with neighbors and inheritance feuds among family members. No matter the issue, achieving a resolution often requires innovative problem-solving and a commitment to getting results. That’s just what we deliver at Gietzen.
Our team, led by Attorney Chandler R. Gietzen, possesses extensive real estate litigation experience, which we use to safeguard and pursue our clients’ interests. Plus, we leverage advanced legal technologies to streamline routine tasks and place our time and energy into what matters most: strategy and advocacy.
Call (619) 374-8179 or reach out online to discuss your matter with our partition and property dispute lawyers in San Diego. We offer free consultations, which we can schedule in person or virtually for your convenience.
The Property Disputes We Can Handle
We have the experience and resources to take on all kinds of property conflicts, including:
- Disputes between co-owners – When multiple people own property together and can't agree on whether to sell, how to manage it, or how to divide rental income and expenses, we help resolve these conflicts through negotiation or partition actions.
- Boundary and access issues – We handle disputes with neighbors over property lines, encroachments, easements, and access rights.
- Family and inheritance conflicts – When family members inherit property together but have different goals, or when disagreements arise over estate property, we can work to achieve resolutions while preserving relationships when possible.
- Ownership and title problems: We resolve disputes over who actually owns property, clear defective titles, and address claims involving fraudulent transfers or competing ownership interests.
What to Know About Property Partitions
A partition action is a legal proceeding that allows co-owners of real property to divide their interests or force the sale of the property when they cannot agree on its management. In California, any co-owner has the legal right to seek partition, making it a powerful tool for resolving ownership deadlocks.
When Partition Actions Arise
Co-ownership arrangements often begin amicably but can deteriorate over time.
Common scenarios when partition actions arise include:
- Siblings inheriting family property who disagree about keeping or selling it
- Business partners holding commercial property who want to dissolve their relationship
- Former romantic partners or spouses who jointly own property but have separated
- Investors in real estate ventures who have conflicting goals or timelines
- Family members where one wants to sell but others want to retain the property
Types of Partition
California law recognizes two primary forms of partition. Partition by sale involves selling the entire property and distributing proceeds according to each owner's interest. This is the most common outcome, especially when physical division isn't practical.
Partition in kind involves physically dividing the property into separate parcels, with each co-owner receiving their proportionate share. Courts prefer this method when feasible, but it's only practical for larger properties that can be meaningfully subdivided.
The Partition Process
Partition actions involve:
- Filing a lawsuit
- Determining each owner's proportionate interest
- Accounting for any contributions or expenditures
- Appointing a “referee” if necessary
- Ultimately, either dividing the property or conducting a court-supervised sale
Very often, the process is complex. This is especially true when co-owners dispute their respective interests or claim reimbursement for improvements and expenses.
Why Legal Representation Matters
While any co-owner has the right to partition, the details matter significantly. Issues like how proceeds are divided, who pays for improvements made by one party, and whether physical division is possible all require skilled legal analysis and advocacy. Without proper representation, like what we provide at Gietzen, you risk receiving less than your fair share or paying more than you should.
Trust Your Case with Our San Diego Partition & Property Dispute Attorneys
Turn to Gietzen for experience-backed and technology-enhanced legal services. We can make even the most complicated property disputes manageable. See for yourself in a free initial consultation.
Call (619) 374-8179 or get in touch online to start with Gietzen. We proudly serve clients throughout Southern and Central California.
The Gietzen Difference
The Next Generation of Attorneys
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Boutique Attention, Big-Firm Capability
Clients work directly with experienced attorneys who provide hands-on guidance while delivering the level of strategy and preparation expected from major firms.
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Modern Litigation, Streamlined
We use advanced legal technology and efficient workflows to move cases forward faster, reduce delays, and keep legal costs under control.
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Clear Communication at Every Step
We prioritize accessibility with virtual meetings, rapid responses, transparent updates, and a commitment to keeping clients informed—not in the dark.
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Free Consultations Available
We offer free, no-pressure consultations so you can understand your options, ask questions, and determine the best strategy before committing to representation.