Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Florida

Gift or Loan-

My boyfriends mom deposited 90k in an escrow account for a down payment on our house. The house is in my name only. I did not sign anything acknowledging that this money was a loan of any kind. Now, one year later, my boyfriend and I are splitting up. He say's she can and or will sue me for that money. Can she?


Asked on 9/04/03, 7:35 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Gift or Loan-

Anyone can sue . What she can prove is something different. Depending upon the facts she may be entitled to an equitable lien on the premises.

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Answered on 9/04/03, 10:06 pm
Darren Inverso Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, P.A.

Re: Gift or Loan-

It's only a gift is there is donative intent. It sound like she could obtain an equitable lien on the property which can lead to a foreclosure. Perhaps try to talk with her to see if there are altenrative ways to pay the money back if she deems it not a gift.

Feel free to give me a call at 941-954-4691 or email me with any questions.

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Answered on 9/05/03, 7:37 am
Peter Gonzalez Sanchez-Medina, Gonzalez, Quesada, Lage, Crespo, Gomez & MachadoLLP

Re: Gift or Loan-

NOTE: This communication is not intended to be legal advice. Instead, it is intended solely as a general statement regarding legal principles. You should not rely on or take any action based on this communication without first presenting all relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction, receiving such attorney's individualized advice for you, and establishing an attorney-client relationship. By reading this "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed herein and/or the information contained in this response is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship with the law firm of Gonzalez & Associates, P.A. or any of its attorneys, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person or entity reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree with the foregoing, then you are instructed to stop here, and do not read any further.

The answer to your question is yes. Anyone can prepare and file a lawsuit. The real question is does she have a claim that may prevail in court, leading to a judgment against you that may result in the foreclosure sale of your home. Depending on all the facts, the claimant may have an equitable lien on the property. The fact that there is no promissory note or other document indicating that the money was "loaned" is in your favor because it may suggest donative intent, meaning the money was freely given to you (and your boyfriend) as a gift. It appears that your problem with your former boyfriend and his mother is not going to go away, so you may want to retain a lawyer to negotiate a favorable settlement on your behalf. Good luck.

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Answered on 9/05/03, 9:02 am


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