Asked in Divorce and Real Estate Law for Colorado

Q: Can I remove my ex-wife's name from deeds of jointly owned lots in Colorado after our 1990 divorce?

I jointly own some town lots with my ex-wife after our divorce in 1990. I want to know if there's a way to remove her name from the deed, considering I've been paying the taxes on them for 30 years and their estimated value is around $1,000. There haven't been any court orders or legal agreements regarding the property after the divorce. I previously tried to execute a quit claim but the county denied it without her signature. I have documentation showing my continuous payment of taxes.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Christopher N. Little
PREMIUM
Answered

A: You ask an excellent question!

I am assuming that you acquired these properties with your ex-wife after the divorce was complete. Since you have been paying taxes for about 30 years, I am guessing that the properties were purchased around 1995 (about 5 years after you stated the divorce was complete (1990)).

From a domestic relations perspective (divorce), without further information, it is unlikely the domestic relations Court would take action on this. This is likely a standard civil issue as opposed to domestic relations. However, this is based on rather limited information. If you would like a more certain and more thorough analysis, I highly suggest that you consult with an attorney licensed to practice law in the State you believe your case belongs in (likely Colorado).

I know that things like this can sometimes pose more trouble than they are seemingly worth. I sincerely wish you and yours only the absolute best.

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