Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in California

Death of spouse - purchased luxury cars

My husband leased two luxury cars in his name alone against my will. Upon his death, I returned the cars and now they want me to pay the difference of what they sold them for. They happily accepted them back but now it's pay up time. In addition, he charged $10k at Home Depot on his account for his business. I have my own business in my name. Am I liable for his debt even if I said no and it was for his personal use? All are sending me threating letters what do I do?


Asked on 9/17/07, 8:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Scott Linden Scott H. Linden, Esq.

Re: Death of spouse - purchased luxury cars

I'm sorry to hear you lost your husband, I'm sure the collectors and annoying calls are not helping. From the brief info you gave, here is what I can tell you.

Generally, one spouse will be liable for the other spouse's debts when they pass away. There are and can be exceptions to this rule.

How were your assets set up? Did you each have wills? A family Trust? Did you each keep your incomes separate? Can trace each of your separae business incomes individually? Do you see the line of reasoning I am following?

If you'd like some assistance, please feel free to call our office...we're relatively close to you in Pasadena...I think we can help out. We specialize in Trusts, Wills and Estates, so we've dealt with similar situations.

I can be reached at the phone, address and email provided by LawGuru. Additionally, you can learn a little more about our firm and some basic Trusts and Estates laws on our firm's website at No-Probate.com.

Warmest Regards,

Scott

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Answered on 9/18/07, 5:50 pm


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