Q: Had a truck sold to me. The title isn’t clear
The vehicle was purchased from the son of the owner who is deceased. The dmv wants two death certificates to clear the title. Now the son won’t respond to any calls or answer his door. Refuses to help. Have a notarized transfer of title clearly showing that he relinquished ownership. But he won’t provide the death certificates. What do I do?
A:
Here are some steps you can take to try to resolve the situation with the unclear vehicle title:
1. Obtain the death certificates yourself: Contact the vital records office in the county or state where the deceased owner passed away. As long as you have the necessary information (such as the person's full name, date of death, and place of death), you should be able to request copies of the death certificates for a fee.
2. Seek legal advice: Consult with a lawyer who specializes in estate law or vehicle title issues. They can help you understand your rights and options based on the notarized transfer of title and the specific laws in your state.
3. File a complaint with the DMV: Inform the DMV about the situation and provide them with the notarized transfer of title. They may have a process for handling disputes like this or be able to offer guidance on how to proceed.
4. Consider legal action: If the seller continues to be uncooperative, you may need to file a lawsuit to compel them to provide the necessary documentation or to seek compensation for any damages or inconvenience caused by the unclear title. A lawyer can advise you on the best course of action.
5. Explore bonded titles: In some states, you may be able to apply for a bonded title, which is a type of title issued when there are issues with the ownership documentation. This process typically requires purchasing a surety bond to protect the state against any future claims on the vehicle. Check with your local DMV to see if this is an option in your case.
Remember, these situations can be complex, so it's essential to gather as much documentation as possible and seek professional legal advice to help you navigate the process and protect your interests.
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