r/asklaw • u/ImpassiveCone • Apr 12 '20

Do I own my car?

So I paid off my car, and I still pay the insurance on it; however, the title is in my dad’s name. I had a falling out with him and he took my car away from me. Do I own the car if I paid for it? What’s the cheapest way to get it back if I can?

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u/AllegedlyNorah Apr 12 '20

If the title's in your dads name, your dad owns it. Not sure how bad the relationship is, but if he's a 'do right' type of guy, he should sign it over to you since you've paid everything. I suppose you can try to take him to court but that might make your relationship even harder in the future. I'd say the cheapest way to get it back is to reconcile with your dad.

2

u/Law_Student Apr 12 '20

If he's the kind of guy who steals from his own child, that might not be possible. If so going to a lawyer to get a threatening letter sent, and follow up with court if necessary, might be the only option.

OP could give the father the option of signing over the title or repaying all the money that OP paid for the 'father's' car.

1

u/kschang NOT A LAWYER does not play one on TV Apr 12 '20

Whoever's name on the title is the legal owner of the car.