Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Ohio

Boat Title

I have a 14' Jon boat that was my grandfathers. When he passed away in 1987 the boat went to my father who never had the title switched into his name. My father has passed now(in 2006) and I would like to get the title in my name so I can use it. I have been told that I have to hire a lawyer and go through probate and open the wills of both my father and grandfather back up so I can prove the boat is who I say it is. I have a copy of the title that is in my grandfathers name. How can I get the title in my name without spending a fortune. I bought the house where the boat is all inclusive. Doesn't this make the boat mine already?


Asked on 7/01/09, 12:33 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Nancy Fioritto Patete Nancy Fioritto Patete, Esq.

Re: Boat Title

A boat is a registered vehicle. Registered vehicles that are titled to a decedent have to go through probate court to be retitled unless the transfer is to be made to a spouse.

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Answered on 7/01/09, 1:21 pm
Dan Guinn Guinn Law Firm, LLC

Re: Boat Title

Based on the facts that you gave me it sounds as if you have to go through probate court. Just because you own the house does not mean you own the boat since a boat is a registered vehicle. I would love to help if you would like my assistance. Feel free to contact me for a free consultation. For something like this I would only charge a flat fee, which would be very low.

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Answered on 7/01/09, 1:48 pm


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