Family Law: All You Need to Know About Disposing of Your Partner's Property After Separation
Sometimes, the events leading to a separation happen quickly, so couples hardly get time to rethink their decision. The aggravated person might even confront their partner with bitterness, leading to a heated argument or a fight.
When this happens, the person can be prompted to walk out of the house without caring about the possessions they've left behind. There could be recreational items, artwork, furniture, and appliances you acquired together, and each of you is entitled to a portion of these assets. Due to the high emotions surrounding the separation, you can be tempted to dispose of everything belonging to your ex-spouse. But learn a few things before you do so.
How Can The Person Who Moved Out Recover Their Items?
Going back to the home to collect the belongings might lead to more confrontation. Therefore, your ex-spouse, who left their items in your matrimonial property, has to use a legal procedure to pick up the items. They can get a court order permitting them to collect everything they own or wait until the two of you complete the property settlement.
Depending on the nature of the separation, the person can decide to give up on their old possessions and buy new ones. They may do so to avoid confrontations when collecting the items they left behind. In that case, you can opt to dispose of the assets if you don't need them anymore or don't want them to be a reminder of the broken relationship.
What Are The Legal Implications Of Disposing Of Your Partner's Property?
If you decide to dispose of your ex-partner's property, the law requires you to notify the person in advance. If you dispose of the belongings without their knowledge, your partner can sue you and demand compensation for the items you sold.
Therefore, you have to write a notification informing them that you will get rid of the belongings within a certain duration if they don't collect them before a specified date.
By doing that, you give them a chance to collect anything they would like to keep. However, you must cooperative when they come to pick up the items. Any misconduct might lead to a lawsuit if it's against the law.
To understand the legal process of disposing of your ex-partner's property better, engage a professional family lawyer for a detailed explanation of the process and the legal aspects involved. That will help you to make the right decisions that are within the law.
To learn more about family law, contact a lawyer.
