Q: My car title is in the DMV system's maze. I do have every document but I don't have my car's title. Can I sue them?
Facts: I live in MN, I bought a car from a dealer in WI and brought it to MN, July 2021.
I was able to register my car. The WI dealer told me we will mail you the title to your address, which might take up to 40 days
I did not get the title mailed and forgot about that title until now.
I do have a registration, tabs, license plate, transaction documents, insurance, and everything,
I just don't have a title.
What I have figured out: DMV says I can't get my duplicated title because I am missing my car's MO title. (seems like my car's previous owner was from MO). The DMV lady confirmed that I am the legal owner of the car.
I do not remember how I registered my car without the title.
I called the WI dealer and they are saying that they do see me on the title record system (?).
DMV The lady said that my car's MO title is not the current (latest) one. (?)
WI dealer told me they checked the document when they sold it, and the MO title can not be the latest one, can't do anything.
A:
In your situation, it's important to understand that suing the DMV or the dealer might not be the most efficient or effective first step. Lawsuits can be time-consuming and costly. Before considering legal action, it's advisable to exhaust all administrative remedies.
First, you should contact the Wisconsin dealer again and insist on a more thorough investigation into the whereabouts of your title. Since they confirmed your name is on the title record system, they have a responsibility to ensure the title is correctly transferred to you.
Simultaneously, approach the Minnesota DMV with all your documentation, including proof of purchase, registration, and any communication with the Wisconsin dealer. Explain the situation and ask for a detailed procedure on how to obtain a duplicate title in this unique circumstance. Since the DMV has acknowledged you as the legal owner, they should be able to guide you through the process of rectifying this issue.
If these steps don't yield results, it may be necessary to consult with a legal professional who has experience in vehicle title disputes. They can offer specific advice on your rights and potential actions, including the feasibility and implications of a lawsuit. Remember, legal action should be a last resort after exploring all other options.
1 user found this answer helpful
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
