Jointly Owned Property Issues in Fortuna
Our team of partition attorneys in Humboldt can assist co-owners with frequently asked questions about partitions, such as:
- What is the average cost of a partition action? The usual cost for a partition action is about $8,000 to $12,000, depending on the complexity. Some cases settle quickly after the defendant receives the partition complaint, while others can drag on longer if there are more complex issues or delay tactics by the defendant.
- What is California’s Partition of Real Property Act? Effective January 1, 2023, California’s new partition law allows defendants to buy out the interests of the plaintiff at an appraised value.
- Who pays for a partition action? In California, each party typically pays for their own attorney’s fees (known as the “American Rule”). However, California partition law allows for an exception to this rule, stating that “the court shall apportion the costs of partition among the parties in proportion to their interests or make such other apportionment as may be equitable.” California Code of Civil Procedure 874.040. Indeed, the court may award “reasonable attorney’s fees incurred or paid by a party for the common benefit.” California Code of Civil Procedure 874.010(a).
- Can a minority owner force the sale of a property? There is no requirement for a majority vote for partition. Rather, an co-owner of any interest in property can force the sale.
- How long will it take to get the property partitioned and sold? Most commonly, 3 to 6 months is all that it takes for the defendant to agree to a sale or buyout the plaintiff’s interest in the property for a fair value. Some cases may take 6 to 12 months.

Our Fortuna Partition Attorneys Know Humboldt County
Fortuna is a small city located in Humboldt County, California. It is situated in the Eel River Valley, near the base of the Coastal Range Mountains. The city is known for its mild climate, redwood forests, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Fortuna is home to a variety of businesses, including a number of wineries, restaurants, and shops. The city is also home to the Fortuna Rodeo, which is held annually in June. Fortuna is a great place to visit for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and friendly atmosphere.
The Los Angeles community of Fortuna is located in the West Adams district of Los Angeles, California. The area was originally part of the Rancho La Brea Mexican land grant, and was developed in the late 19th century. The area was named after the Fortuna Oil Company, which was founded in the area in 1887. The company was one of the first to drill for oil in the area, and the community grew up around the oil wells. In the early 20th century, the area was home to a large African American population, and was known as the “Harlem of the West.” The area was home to many jazz clubs, and was a popular destination for African American entertainers. In the 1950s, the area began to decline as many of the oil wells were abandoned and the population shifted to other parts of the city. In the 1970s, the area was designated as a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone, and many of the historic buildings were restored. Today, the area is home to a diverse population, and is a popular destination for art galleries, restaurants, and other businesses.
DeMartini v. DeMartini – Partition Action Case Study
In the legal case of DeMartini v. DeMartini, 2017 WL 2334329, A147782 (30-May-2017) , the issue of partition was at the center of the dispute. The case involved a dispute between two siblings over the partition of their parents’ real property. The siblings had inherited the property from their parents, and the siblings had agreed to partition the property in a certain way. However, one of the siblings later refused to abide by the agreement and refused to sign the partition agreement. The other sibling then filed a lawsuit seeking to compel the other sibling to sign the partition agreement. The court ultimately ruled in favor of the plaintiff, ordering the defendant to sign the partition agreement. The court also ordered the defendant to pay the plaintiff’s attorney’s fees and costs.
Contact an Experienced Partition Attorney in Fortuna, California
If you want to end your co-ownership relationship, but your co-owner refuses, a partition action is your only option. Our experienced partition lawyers serving Fortuna have years of experience ending co-ownership disputes in California and can help you unlock the equity in your Humboldt County property. For a free, 15-minute consultation with a knowledgeable partition attorney at Partition Lawyer California, call (707) 777-6600 or fill out a contact form online.
Contact us Today for a Free Consultation with a Partition Attorney in Fortuna, California
Our partition attorneys in Fortuna also serve Eureka, Arcata, McKinleyville, Ferndale, Rio Dell, Scotia, Alton, and Hydesville