Recent Answers to Minnesota Law Questions

My husband and I bought a house before we got married but he is the only one on the mortgage and title for the home. We are in our 50's now and would like to add myself to the title deed to the home too so we don't run into legal issues if in event that he would pass away before me.

Michael C.

Answered Sep 15, 2023

The main form used to transfer property between spouses is called a Quit Claim Deed. This allows you to transfer interest without going through a full real estate transaction. The Quit Claim Deed must be signed by the current owner(s) of the property, notarized, and then filed with the county recorder office where the property is located. There is typically a small filing fee. You will need the full legal description of the property and the Property ID Number or Parcel ID to complete the Quit Claim Deed form properly. This can be found on your current deed, property tax statement, or through the county assessor's office. Both spouses will need valid photo ID when signing the Quit Claim Deed in front of a notary public. If there are already loans secured by the property, the lender may need to provide approval to add the spouse, so check with your mortgage company first.

I have been partnered for several years. My partner owned the home prior to me moving in. However, I am contributing to the monthly mortgage/expenses. We have a co-habitation agreement however, I would like to be added to the title/deed of the home. Can I do this for a low cost? How do I go about this? Thanks!!!

Jaren J.

Answered Aug 29, 2023

You need to have your partner sign/notarize a quit claim deed from your partner to you and your partner either as joint tenants or tenants in common. The deed is then filed with the county in which the property is located and the $46 recording feed paid (along with a $5 conservation fee and $1.65 to $1.70 deed tax).

I own 40 acres of hunting land. My brother wants to buy half and has the cash

Maury B.

Answered Jul 20, 2023

If you wish to adda. name to the title, you would have to execute a quitclaim deed from the current title holder (presumably you) to the new title holders (you and whoever you are adding). Tat would then be filed in the office where land titles are filed in your county, usually the County Recorder's office.

I scheduled a free photography session with this girl. She said she needed $200 in advance that will go towards a package I'll buy when the photos are done. I decided the next day after looking how expensive her packages are that I couldn't afford it. I never signed the contract she sent me but she will not give me the $200 back. Can I get this money back? Am I in the wrong or is she?

Domonick G.

Answered Aug 16, 2022

No

Just opening a cleaning business and I need contracts for the business. I also need contracts for employees, as the business grows.

Jane C.

Answered Jun 24, 2022

Please consult with an attorney. You can submit a proposal on Contracts Council.

Hi, I am EU national from Lithuania and we opened a company with a partner in US. Our initial agreement with that person, was, that he handles US operations and keeps part of the company. However, legally it is registered as LLC in Minnesota under his name. At this stage, turnovers are growing and we would like to transfer ownership (I think selling the company) to me and keep him as a Director in that company. This LLC is operating from 2019. We would like to know, is it possible to do it without physically traveling to US? What tax implications will be? Also will it be possible to buy this company at low cost? Company has a lot of inventory, but at the same time high debt with suppliers. At the moment, equity is about 2k and vendor debts - inventory/customer debts/cash approximately 280k. Thank you for your help!

Jaren J.

Answered Feb 25, 2022

The transfer of LLC member interests are done via written agreements signed by all parties. They are internal to the company and not recorded anywhere. You don't need to be in the US to accomplish the transfer. Depending on how the transfer is done, there shouldn't be any tax implications.