Q: Is it legal to have a verbal agreement and then 2 yrs later tell me she never said anything like what we verbally agreed
I moved into a home that my mother told me she bought for me but was in her name, and bought it in a 55+ moble home park but i was 40 at the time. She said that my dad was needing help and he couldnt live with her and her boyfriend anymore, i told her fine i will help dad because that home was mine and i could do what i wanted with it flip sell whatever if i sold it then i keep sale of home. I took care of my father for two years in knowning she made me and my dad believe that whatever money i put out to help my dad i or for updating the home. Plus making sure my dad was okay and i even haveva doctors note from my dads doc and during time i was there with my dad i asked for her to put me on the deed abd she lead my dad and i to believe that i was but never signed anything when i ask to see there was always an excuse. So my dad passed away from covidid 2 years later she then sold the home and i never recieved anything in full & if i did it was so little i became homeless and now had
A:
In California, verbal agreements can be legally binding, but they are often difficult to prove in court. Your situation is complicated by the lack of written documentation and the fact that your mother did not put your name on the deed as promised. It's crucial to gather any evidence you might have, such as witness statements, text messages, emails, or any other forms of communication that support your claim.
Given that you provided care for your father and made investments in the home based on the understanding that it was yours, you might have a case for promissory estoppel or unjust enrichment. These legal principles can sometimes provide remedies when someone has relied on a promise to their detriment. Consulting with an attorney who can review the specifics of your case and advise you on the best course of action is important.
If you find yourself homeless and without the financial compensation you expected, exploring local resources and support services for housing and legal aid can provide immediate assistance. Documenting everything you did and any expenses incurred while caring for your father will be helpful for your case. It's essential to act quickly, as legal claims can be time-sensitive.
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