In California, a quiet title action typically takes between eight and twelve months to complete, though complex cases involving unknown defendants or multiple liens can take longer. The timeline for a quiet title depends mainly on the speed of the San Jose court schedule, the complexity of the title defects, and...

In California, you can sue a neighbor for devaluing your property if their actions constitute a "private nuisance," which is defined as something that substantially and unreasonably interferes with your use or enjoyment of your land. While you cannot typically sue for a neighbor’s general poor maintenance, you may be able...

An easement gives someone the legal right to use another person’s property for a limited purpose, but it does not transfer ownership of the land itself. Easement ownership depends on whether the easement benefits a neighboring property or a specific person or entity. In most cases, the property that benefits from...

An easement gives one person the right to use another person’s property for a specific purpose—like accessing a driveway, maintaining utility lines, or crossing land to reach a shared road. In California, easements are common, but disagreements often arise over boundaries, maintenance responsibilities, or misuse. When informal discussions fail, legal action may...

Buying property in California is often one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. You expect that the seller will be upfront about the condition of the home or building, but sometimes key details are left out. When a seller hides or fails to share information they are legally required...

Quiet title actions and title insurance are two ways to address the title issues that may arise when you purchase real estate. Title insurance offers certain proactive protections in the event of a title dispute, whereas quiet title actions may be taken in response when a title issue arises.

A quiet title action is a lawsuit that settles ownership disputes over real estate. Property owners file this type of case to establish clear and marketable title, which exists when no one else has a valid claim to a property. Courts review these claims and issue decisions confirming ownership.

An easement is a legal right that grants someone the ability to use another person’s property for a specific purpose. While the property owner still owns the land, they must allow the easement holder to use it as permitted by law or agreement. Easements can be temporary or permanent and may involve...