own 2 equal lots with another couple. want to spilt ownership, they refuse.
Question Details: My husband and i own 2 lots in dixon il. they are the same and cost the same amount. They are fully paid for and my husband and i would like to own one and they own the other. They will not sign the papers to split the ownership. They are now divorced and they were told by the judge to sign her off the lots, however they never did. The property taxes are overdue and they wont pay thier half, leaving us to pay and then sue. Is there anyway to force them and make them pay the court costs?
If there is a court order that is not being obeyed, then one of the parties to that case should file a motion requesting a contempt finding. Otherwise, you have the right to ask for the property to be partitioned. Since it is two, distinct lots, the court likely would order one to you and one to them. Then, you can concern yourself solely with the one you retain without concern for property taxes and other issues on the other, although further exploration may be necessary regarding the current property taxes. Would an offer to buy out the other interest be more compelling? If there are ways to negotiate a settlement, everyone may save. An attorney should consider the background and advise you more fully.
