Divorce And Property Rights

Summary

Navigating divorce and property rights in Minnesota involves understanding equitable distribution, verbal rental agreements, and shared property rights. Both parties have rights to shared property until legally decided otherwise. Consulting a local attorney is advisable for tailored advice.

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My wife and I have not yet filed for divorce. We rent a house, have lived here for 13 years, and have been married for 8 years. We have never had a lease, we rent from friends. During that time, she has paid the rent ($*/month until *-3 years ago, now $700 month) and I pay all of our other bills - internet, cell phone, electricity, garbage, propane, car insurance, etc. - which is always more than the amount of rent. When we decided to divorce we both agreed either of us wanted anything from each other, but we both wanted to stay in the house. She became very upset and verbally abusive and threatening to take half of my retirement and sell my car (I have recordings, though I doubt that has much bearing on the matter) and told me I was the one who needed to move out and within 30 days. I finally said I would compromise and move, but not until I find a place I'm willing to stay long-term - and if she isn't okay with cohabiting until then, she can stay somewhere else until I leave, keep her things here, and come back when I'm gone. A few days ago she left me a letter stating that I have 30 days to vacate the premises, and took some thin gs and has been staying elsewhere. Last night while I was gone she took our golf cart and locked me out of our garage.
I'm sorry to hear about your situation, ****. This seems to be a complex issue involving both family and property law.
*. Generally in Georgia, if a spouse has been paying rent, it doesn't automatically grant them sole right to the property.
*. Verbal agreements can sometimes be taken into account.
*. Regarding your retirement and car, Georgia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital assets are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally.
It's best to consult with a local attorney for advice tailored to your situation.
This is in minnesota
I apologize for the confusion, ****. Here are some points about Minnesota law:
*. Minnesota is also an equitable distribution state.
*. Verbal rental agreements are recognized, but written ones are stronger.
*. Both parties have rights to shared property until legally decided otherwise.
It's best to consult a local attorney in Minnesota for advice.