Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey

Deed good or not?

mother is 74 years old. commonlaw married to my father. separated back in early '70's. my mom has deed to house her and my father owned. it was in both their names. she never signed it but my dad did. she has this deed and all payments made in full. this house has been occupied by numerous families and sold numerous times since. she thinks she may still own the house. my dad is now deceased. my dad signed off on the house but my mother refused to. she has the paperwork, what do i do to help her?


Asked on 6/09/02, 8:05 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Re: Deed good or not?

The last deed recorded with the County Clerk (you may get a copy, there is a small fee) must be reviewed by an attorney to determine who now has legal title. If the house was indeed "sold numerous times since", someone else would be the current owner.

You and your mother should consult with a real estate attorney to review all of her paperwork as well as a copy of the last recorded deed. Only then can an attorney advise you.

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Answered on 6/09/02, 1:56 pm
Ryan Dornish Ryan A. Dornish, Attorney At Law

Re: Deed good or not?

Please be advised that I have not been retained to reporesent you and I am basing this response on the limited amount of information supplied. However, if the house has been sold numerous times, why does your mother still think she owns it? Your description is confusing and in order for any lawyer to properly advise you, the lawyer would have to see the deed and search the Courthouse records in order to determine who actually owns the property. Please feel free to contact me at 908-537-7975.

Good Luck!

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Answered on 6/16/02, 4:30 pm


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