property and protection
DESCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPT
Chapter 28 – 30Chapter 28 – 30Personal Property Personal Property
andandBailments Bailments
Presented by Presented by Roland CyrRoland Cyr
5/4/095/4/09
• What is real property? What is personal property?
• What does it mean to own property in fee simple? What is the difference between a joint tenancy and a tenancy in common?
• What are the three elements necessary for an effective gift? How else can property be acquired?
• What are the three elements of a bailment?• What are the basic rights and duties of the
bailee? What are the basic rights and duties of the bailor?
• What is real property? What is personal property?
• What does it mean to own property in fee simple? What is the difference between a joint tenancy and a tenancy in common?
• What are the three elements necessary for an effective gift? How else can property be acquired?
• What are the three elements of a bailment?• What are the basic rights and duties of the
bailee? What are the basic rights and duties of the bailor? 22
Learning Objectives
IntroductionIntroduction
• Definition: Property consists of legally protected rights and interests a person has in anything with an ascertainable value that is subject to ownership.– Difference Between Real and Personal Property.– Ownership rights in each.
• Acquiring Ownership of Personal Property.• Laws Governing Mislaid, Lost, or Abandoned
Property.
• Definition: Property consists of legally protected rights and interests a person has in anything with an ascertainable value that is subject to ownership.– Difference Between Real and Personal Property.– Ownership rights in each.
• Acquiring Ownership of Personal Property.• Laws Governing Mislaid, Lost, or Abandoned
Property.33
Personal PropertyPersonal Property
• Personal property includes all property not classified as real property– TV
– Car
– Living Room Set
– All forms of property other than real property – Real Estate/Land
• Personal property includes all property not classified as real property– TV
– Car
– Living Room Set
– All forms of property other than real property – Real Estate/Land
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Nature of Real PropertyNature of Real Property
• Real property is immovable and includes: – Land.– Buildings.– Airspace.– Plant Life and Vegetation.– Subsurface (mineral) rights.– Fixtures .
• Real property is immovable and includes: – Land.– Buildings.– Airspace.– Plant Life and Vegetation.– Subsurface (mineral) rights.– Fixtures .
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FixturesFixtures• A fixture is personal property that
becomes permanently affixed to real property.– Intent that it become a fixture is
necessary.– Intent is determined by:
• The fact that the property cannot be removed without causing damage to the realty.
• The fact that the property is so adapted to the realty that it has become part of the realty.
• A fixture is personal property that becomes permanently affixed to real property.– Intent that it become a fixture is
necessary.– Intent is determined by:
• The fact that the property cannot be removed without causing damage to the realty.
• The fact that the property is so adapted to the realty that it has become part of the realty.
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FixturesFixtures
• CASE 29.1 In re Sand & Sage Farm and Ranch, Inc. (2001).
• Trade fixtures: installed for commercial purposes by a tenant.
• They remain the property of the tenant and can be removed when tenant leaves, repairing any damage caused by removal.
• CASE 29.1 In re Sand & Sage Farm and Ranch, Inc. (2001).
• Trade fixtures: installed for commercial purposes by a tenant.
• They remain the property of the tenant and can be removed when tenant leaves, repairing any damage caused by removal.
Property OwnershipProperty Ownership• Property ownership is viewed as a
“bundle of rights”, including the:– Right to possess.
– Right to sell.
– Right to give.
– Right to lease.
– Right to destroy.
– Basis for property ownership?
– Concurrent Ownership methods!
• Property ownership is viewed as a “bundle of rights”, including the:– Right to possess.
– Right to sell.
– Right to give.
– Right to lease.
– Right to destroy.
– Basis for property ownership?
– Concurrent Ownership methods!88
Fee SimpleFee Simple
• Owns the entire “bundle of rights”.
• Fee simple gives the owner the maximum possible estate or right of ownership of real property, continuing forever…..
• Various methods of ownership….
• Owns the entire “bundle of rights”.
• Fee simple gives the owner the maximum possible estate or right of ownership of real property, continuing forever…..
• Various methods of ownership….
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Ownership in Fee SimpleOwnership in Fee Simple
• Fee Simple (sometimes called fee simple absolute) gives the owner the greatest aggregation of rights, powers and privileges possible under American law and can assigned to heirs.– A “conveyance” (transfer of real estate) “from A to
B” creates a fee simple. A is the Grantor and B is the Grantee.
• Fee Simple Defeasible: grants conditional ownership to Grantee as long as he complies with condition. “A to B as long as ….”
• Fee Simple (sometimes called fee simple absolute) gives the owner the greatest aggregation of rights, powers and privileges possible under American law and can assigned to heirs.– A “conveyance” (transfer of real estate) “from A to
B” creates a fee simple. A is the Grantor and B is the Grantee.
• Fee Simple Defeasible: grants conditional ownership to Grantee as long as he complies with condition. “A to B as long as ….”
What does Fee Simple Mean?What does Fee Simple Mean?
• An owner in fee simple is entitled to use, possess, or dispose of the property as he or she chooses during his or her lifetime, and on this owner’s death, the interests in the property descend to his or her heirs.
• An owner in fee simple is entitled to use, possess, or dispose of the property as he or she chooses during his or her lifetime, and on this owner’s death, the interests in the property descend to his or her heirs.
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Tenancy in CommonTenancy in Common
•A and B own an undivided interest in the property. Upon B’s death interest passes to B’s heir, “C”.•CASE 28.1 Clark v. Dady (2004).
•A and B own an undivided interest in the property. Upon B’s death interest passes to B’s heir, “C”.•CASE 28.1 Clark v. Dady (2004).
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A B
C
Tenancy in CommonTenancy in Common
• A tenancy in common is a form of co-ownership in which each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the whole property.
• On the death of a tenant in common, that tenant’s interest passes to her or his heirs.
• A tenancy in common is a form of co-ownership in which each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the whole property.
• On the death of a tenant in common, that tenant’s interest passes to her or his heirs.
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Tenancy in CommonTenancy in Common• When concurrent owners own a fractional
interest in a property which may vary according to owner, or usually it is divided equally.
• Title list all owners and share of ownership if not equal
• If not specific, then divided equally
• Example – if 4 people own a property, each has a 25% interest in the entire property
• Each owner can sell his interest, but not the entire property.
• When concurrent owners own a fractional interest in a property which may vary according to owner, or usually it is divided equally.
• Title list all owners and share of ownership if not equal
• If not specific, then divided equally
• Example – if 4 people own a property, each has a 25% interest in the entire property
• Each owner can sell his interest, but not the entire property. 1414
Joint TenancyJoint Tenancy
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A and B own an A and B own an undivided undivided interest in interest in property but, property but, upon B’s death, upon B’s death, B’s interest B’s interest passes to A, the passes to A, the surviving joint surviving joint tenant.tenant.
A B
Joint TenancyJoint Tenancy
• In a joint tenancy, each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the property, and a deceased joint tenant’s interest passes to the surviving joint tenant or tenants. This right distinguishes the joint tenancy from the tenancy in common.
• In a joint tenancy, each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the property, and a deceased joint tenant’s interest passes to the surviving joint tenant or tenants. This right distinguishes the joint tenancy from the tenancy in common.
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Joint TenancyJoint Tenancy
• Is like a tenancy in common, but..
• Joint tenants have an undivided interest with right of survivorship
• An undivided interest is an ownership right to use an possess the entire property, however
• No single co-owner can mortgage, sell or otherwise convey any piece of the property w/out the consent of all joint tenants.
• Is like a tenancy in common, but..
• Joint tenants have an undivided interest with right of survivorship
• An undivided interest is an ownership right to use an possess the entire property, however
• No single co-owner can mortgage, sell or otherwise convey any piece of the property w/out the consent of all joint tenants.
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Tenancy by the EntiretyTenancy by the Entirety• A tenancy by the entirety is ownership
by a husband and wife. Neither spouse may transfer separately his or her interest during his or her life.
• Like a joint tenancy but differs in that there can only be two tenants.
• Must be married and interest can not be conveyed w/out signature of both tenants.
• A tenancy by the entirety is ownership by a husband and wife. Neither spouse may transfer separately his or her interest during his or her life.
• Like a joint tenancy but differs in that there can only be two tenants.
• Must be married and interest can not be conveyed w/out signature of both tenants.
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Tenancy by the EntiretyTenancy by the Entirety• If a married couple buys a property
and the deed does not stipulate the form of ownership, a tenancy by the entirety is formed…
• Can be terminated by death of spouse, (Severalty) by divorce, (tenancy in common) by agreement of both spouses, or by court order (bankruptcy
• If a married couple buys a property and the deed does not stipulate the form of ownership, a tenancy by the entirety is formed…
• Can be terminated by death of spouse, (Severalty) by divorce, (tenancy in common) by agreement of both spouses, or by court order (bankruptcy
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Community PropertyCommunity Property
• Limited # of states – Ten States allow community Property– If property is held as community property,
each spouse technically owns an undivided one-half interest in it.
– Joint ownership of property by husband & wife inn which each spouse owns an undivided ½ interest in property acquired during marriage.
• Limited # of states – Ten States allow community Property– If property is held as community property,
each spouse technically owns an undivided one-half interest in it.
– Joint ownership of property by husband & wife inn which each spouse owns an undivided ½ interest in property acquired during marriage.
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SummarySummary
• An owner in fee simple is entitled to use, possess, or dispose of the property as he or she chooses during his or her lifetime, and on this owner’s death, the interests in the property descend to his or her heirs. A tenancy in common is a form of co-ownership in which each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the whole property. On the death of a tenant in common, that tenant’s interest passes to her or his heirs. In a joint tenancy, each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the property, and a deceased joint tenant’s interest passes to the surviving joint tenant or tenants. This right distinguishes the joint tenancy from the tenancy in common.
• An owner in fee simple is entitled to use, possess, or dispose of the property as he or she chooses during his or her lifetime, and on this owner’s death, the interests in the property descend to his or her heirs. A tenancy in common is a form of co-ownership in which each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the whole property. On the death of a tenant in common, that tenant’s interest passes to her or his heirs. In a joint tenancy, each of two or more persons owns an undivided interest in the property, and a deceased joint tenant’s interest passes to the surviving joint tenant or tenants. This right distinguishes the joint tenancy from the tenancy in common. 2121
Time, Title, Interest & PossessionTime, Title, Interest & Possession
• Both the joint tenancy and tenancy by the entirety require that certain preconditions
• First, the owners of the estate must have both received their interests at the same time (unity of time).
• Second, the owners of the estate must both draw their title from the same deed or document (unity of title).
• Third, the owners of the estate must have equal interests in the land (unity of interest).
• Fourth, the owners must have an unrestricted right to use the entire property (unity of possession).
• A tenancy in common may exist without any of these unities except that relating to the unity of possession because tenants in common, despite the unevenness of their respective interests in the property, still have the right to use the entire property.
• Both the joint tenancy and tenancy by the entirety require that certain preconditions
• First, the owners of the estate must have both received their interests at the same time (unity of time).
• Second, the owners of the estate must both draw their title from the same deed or document (unity of title).
• Third, the owners of the estate must have equal interests in the land (unity of interest).
• Fourth, the owners must have an unrestricted right to use the entire property (unity of possession).
• A tenancy in common may exist without any of these unities except that relating to the unity of possession because tenants in common, despite the unevenness of their respective interests in the property, still have the right to use the entire property. 2222
Acquiring Ownership of Personal PropertyAcquiring Ownership of Personal Property
• Purchase Property• Possession of Property.
– Capture of wild animals (wild animals belong to no one).
– Finding of abandoned property.– Adverse Possession.
• Production. (Creating)– Writers, inventors, manufacturers, and
others who produce personal property acquire title to it.
• Purchase Property• Possession of Property.
– Capture of wild animals (wild animals belong to no one).
– Finding of abandoned property.– Adverse Possession.
• Production. (Creating)– Writers, inventors, manufacturers, and
others who produce personal property acquire title to it.
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GiftsGifts
• Voluntary transfer of property ownership from Donor (owner) to Donee (recipient) for no consideration.– Can’t be under duress or fraud (IRS)
• Three types– Intervivos—while donor is living. – Not in
contemplation of imminent death– Causa Mortis: -- made by donor in contemplation
of imminent death. – The donee must survive the donor in order to accept the gift, if the donor does not die as expected, the gift is revoked
– Testamentary – after death, by will/inheritance.
• Voluntary transfer of property ownership from Donor (owner) to Donee (recipient) for no consideration.– Can’t be under duress or fraud (IRS)
• Three types– Intervivos—while donor is living. – Not in
contemplation of imminent death– Causa Mortis: -- made by donor in contemplation
of imminent death. – The donee must survive the donor in order to accept the gift, if the donor does not die as expected, the gift is revoked
– Testamentary – after death, by will/inheritance.
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GiftsGifts• Three requirements for valid gift:
– Delivery—actual or “constructive” (symbolic, such as keys to car). • Donor must give up complete control or
dominion. Delivery by a 3rd party is OK.
•CASE 28.2 In re Estate of Piper (1984).
– Donative intent on the part of the donor – Must intend on for the transfer of the gift
– Acceptance by the Donee.
• Three requirements for valid gift:– Delivery—actual or “constructive”
(symbolic, such as keys to car). • Donor must give up complete control or
dominion. Delivery by a 3rd party is OK.
•CASE 28.2 In re Estate of Piper (1984).
– Donative intent on the part of the donor – Must intend on for the transfer of the gift
– Acceptance by the Donee.2525
ENGAGEMENT RINGENGAGEMENT RING• Often, when a couple decides to marry, one party
gives the other an engagement ring. If the engagement is called off, typically the ring is returned. Yet what if the recipient of the ring refuses to return it and a dispute over who owns the ring reaches a court? What law should apply in determining ownership rights in this particular form of personal property? In the eyes of the law, is an engagement ring a “conditional gift” that becomes effective only when the couple actually marries? Or is it an effective gift to begin with, meaning that it belongs to the person to whom it was given—the donee? Furthermore, does ownership of the ring depend on who breaks the engagement?
• Often, when a couple decides to marry, one party gives the other an engagement ring. If the engagement is called off, typically the ring is returned. Yet what if the recipient of the ring refuses to return it and a dispute over who owns the ring reaches a court? What law should apply in determining ownership rights in this particular form of personal property? In the eyes of the law, is an engagement ring a “conditional gift” that becomes effective only when the couple actually marries? Or is it an effective gift to begin with, meaning that it belongs to the person to whom it was given—the donee? Furthermore, does ownership of the ring depend on who breaks the engagement? 2626
ENGAGEMENT RINGENGAGEMENT RING
• WHAT DO YOU THINK?
• WHO SHOULD KEEP THE RING?
• IF YOU WERE THE JUDGE, WHO WOULD GET THE RIING BACK?
• IS THE RING A GIFT? IS THE RING A CONDITIONAL GIFT PENDING MARRIAGE?
• WHAT DO YOU THINK?
• WHO SHOULD KEEP THE RING?
• IF YOU WERE THE JUDGE, WHO WOULD GET THE RIING BACK?
• IS THE RING A GIFT? IS THE RING A CONDITIONAL GIFT PENDING MARRIAGE?
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ENGAGEMENT RINGENGAGEMENT RING
• Some courts hold that an engagement ring is a conditional gift that becomes an absolute (effective) gift only on marriage. Other courts conclude that when an engagement ring is given to the donee, the donee should have full ownership rights in the property.
• Michigan - $19k ring – prenuptial agreement - Court ruled for male -conditional gift that becomes final only if the marriage occurs
• PA - $17k ring – PA Supreme Court ruled temporary gift that becomes absolute only when the marriage takes place.
• Courts in Kansas, Ohio, New York, and New Mexico have held likewise.
• Montana Supreme Court held a $29k ring did belong to the female… “transfer of personal property made voluntarily and without consideration.”
• Some courts hold that an engagement ring is a conditional gift that becomes an absolute (effective) gift only on marriage. Other courts conclude that when an engagement ring is given to the donee, the donee should have full ownership rights in the property.
• Michigan - $19k ring – prenuptial agreement - Court ruled for male -conditional gift that becomes final only if the marriage occurs
• PA - $17k ring – PA Supreme Court ruled temporary gift that becomes absolute only when the marriage takes place.
• Courts in Kansas, Ohio, New York, and New Mexico have held likewise.
• Montana Supreme Court held a $29k ring did belong to the female… “transfer of personal property made voluntarily and without consideration.” 2828
Acquiring Ownership of Personal PropertyAcquiring Ownership of Personal Property
• Will or Inheritance.
• Accession.
– Someone adds value to a piece of personal property by use of either labor or materials.
• Confusion.
– Commingling so that a person’s personal property cannot be distinguished from another’s. – (Tenants in common)
• Will or Inheritance.
• Accession.
– Someone adds value to a piece of personal property by use of either labor or materials.
• Confusion.
– Commingling so that a person’s personal property cannot be distinguished from another’s. – (Tenants in common)
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Mislaid, Lost or Abandoned PropertyMislaid, Lost or Abandoned Property
• Mislaid Property: Voluntary placed somewhere, then inadvertently forgotten. Finder is steward for true owner. – Finder does not obtain title to the property, but rather holds it in trust for the true owner. If the property is later found, the original owner becomes legal owner
• Lost Property: Involuntarily left. Property owner acquires title against whole world, except for true owner. Finder must return to true owner or be liable for conversion.
• Abandoned Property: Discarded by true owner with no intention of recovering. Acquires title against all the world, including the original owner.
• Mislaid Property: Voluntary placed somewhere, then inadvertently forgotten. Finder is steward for true owner. – Finder does not obtain title to the property, but rather holds it in trust for the true owner. If the property is later found, the original owner becomes legal owner
• Lost Property: Involuntarily left. Property owner acquires title against whole world, except for true owner. Finder must return to true owner or be liable for conversion.
• Abandoned Property: Discarded by true owner with no intention of recovering. Acquires title against all the world, including the original owner.
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Lost Property - SummaryLost Property - Summary• The well-known children’s adage, “Finders keepers,
losers weepers,” is actually written into law—provided that the loser (the rightful owner) cannot be found. A finder of lost personal property may acquire good title to the property against everyone except the true owner.
• A number of landmark cases have made this principle clear.
• The well-known children’s adage, “Finders keepers, losers weepers,” is actually written into law—provided that the loser (the rightful owner) cannot be found. A finder of lost personal property may acquire good title to the property against everyone except the true owner.
• A number of landmark cases have made this principle clear.
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BailmentsBailments
• A bailment is formed by the delivery of personal property, without transfer of title, by one person (Bailor) to another (Bailee), usually under an agreement for a particular purpose.
• The property must be returned by the Bailee to the Bailor, or a third party as directed by the Bailor, in the same or better condition.
• CASE 28.3 Sunbelt Cranes Construction and Hauling, Inc. v. Gulf Coast Erectors, Inc. (2002).
• A bailment is formed by the delivery of personal property, without transfer of title, by one person (Bailor) to another (Bailee), usually under an agreement for a particular purpose.
• The property must be returned by the Bailee to the Bailor, or a third party as directed by the Bailor, in the same or better condition.
• CASE 28.3 Sunbelt Cranes Construction and Hauling, Inc. v. Gulf Coast Erectors, Inc. (2002).
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Elements of a BailmentElements of a Bailment• Personal Property. (Tangible or Intangible--but not
persons or realty.)• Delivery of Possession.
– Bailee given exclusive control or possession.– May be actual or constructive.– Bailee must knowingly accept (Bailee must intend
to exercise control over chattel).• Bailment Agreement.
– Express or Implied. – Express – written– Implied – no written– Assumes property will be returned……
• Personal Property. (Tangible or Intangible--but not persons or realty.)
• Delivery of Possession.– Bailee given exclusive control or possession.– May be actual or constructive.– Bailee must knowingly accept (Bailee must intend
to exercise control over chattel).• Bailment Agreement.
– Express or Implied. – Express – written– Implied – no written– Assumes property will be returned……
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Bailments: Duty of CareBailments: Duty of Care
• Bailment for the sole benefit of the Bailor:– A gratuitous Bailment; Bailee owes Bailor a low duty of
care, liable only for gross negligence. (Video) Vinny is the bailee, he benefited from using the rug cleaner.
• Bailment for the sole benefit of the Bailee:– Bailee owes Bailor a high duty of care and is liable for
even slight negligence. – Because the bailment is for the sole benefit of the bailee, Vinny will be held to a higher standard of care and will be liable for damages caused by even slight negligence.
• Mutual Benefit Bailment: most common. – Each party owes the other a reasonable duty of care.
• Bailment for the sole benefit of the Bailor:– A gratuitous Bailment; Bailee owes Bailor a low duty of
care, liable only for gross negligence. (Video) Vinny is the bailee, he benefited from using the rug cleaner.
• Bailment for the sole benefit of the Bailee:– Bailee owes Bailor a high duty of care and is liable for
even slight negligence. – Because the bailment is for the sole benefit of the bailee, Vinny will be held to a higher standard of care and will be liable for damages caused by even slight negligence.
• Mutual Benefit Bailment: most common. – Each party owes the other a reasonable duty of care.
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VinnyVinny• The facts state that Vinny did not bother to vacuum the rug,
pick up the large objects off his floor (tennis ball, items of clothing), or move the furniture prior to using the rug-cleaning machine. Clearly, Vinny’s careless use of the equipment would establish that he was negligent and failed to exercise the high degree of care that he was required to use in this situation. (In fact, it would probably even be negligent under the reasonable standard of care that would be applied if a person had rented the equipment.) The standard a court would apply in this situation was correctly stated by Oscar in the video—Vinny should have treated the machine as if it were Oscar’s (the supermarket’s) and not his own. The court will hold Vinny liable for any damage that his carelessness caused to the rug-cleaning machine.
• The facts state that Vinny did not bother to vacuum the rug, pick up the large objects off his floor (tennis ball, items of clothing), or move the furniture prior to using the rug-cleaning machine. Clearly, Vinny’s careless use of the equipment would establish that he was negligent and failed to exercise the high degree of care that he was required to use in this situation. (In fact, it would probably even be negligent under the reasonable standard of care that would be applied if a person had rented the equipment.) The standard a court would apply in this situation was correctly stated by Oscar in the video—Vinny should have treated the machine as if it were Oscar’s (the supermarket’s) and not his own. The court will hold Vinny liable for any damage that his carelessness caused to the rug-cleaning machine.
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Bailments: Duty of CareBailments: Duty of Care
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Benefit of Bailor
Benefit of Bailee
Low Duty of Care
High Duty of
Care
Reasonable Care
Mutual Benefit
Rights and Duties of the Bailee
Rights and Duties of the Bailee
• Right To Possess.– Bailee may acquire or use property
temporarily. Title does not pass.
• Right to Use Bailed Property. • Rights of Compensation.
– Reimbursed for costs or services as provided in the agreement.
• Right To Possess.– Bailee may acquire or use property
temporarily. Title does not pass.
• Right to Use Bailed Property. • Rights of Compensation.
– Reimbursed for costs or services as provided in the agreement.
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Rights and Duties of the Bailee
Rights and Duties of the Bailee
• Right to Limit Liability.
• Duty to Return bailed property in same condition to Bailor.
• Bailee may liable for conversion and/or negligence.
• Right to Limit Liability.
• Duty to Return bailed property in same condition to Bailor.
• Bailee may liable for conversion and/or negligence.
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Rights and Duties of the Bailor
Rights and Duties of the Bailor
• Right to have property protected and used as agreed.
• Right to have property back at end of bailment with service or repair done properly.
• Right to have the Bailee not convert.• Right to not be bound to limitation of liability
unless Bailor knows.• Duty to Provide safe goods:
–Mutual Benefit Bailment: free from known or hidden defects; Sole Benefit of Bailee: notify if any known defect.
• Right to have property protected and used as agreed.
• Right to have property back at end of bailment with service or repair done properly.
• Right to have the Bailee not convert.• Right to not be bound to limitation of liability
unless Bailor knows.• Duty to Provide safe goods:
–Mutual Benefit Bailment: free from known or hidden defects; Sole Benefit of Bailee: notify if any known defect.
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Special Bailments: Common Carriers
Special Bailments: Common Carriers
• Publicly licenses to provide transportation services to general public.
• Common Carriers are strictly liable for damages except if the damages caused by: – An act of God.– An act of the public enemy.– An order of the public authority.– An act of the shipper.– The inherent nature of the goods.
• Shipper’s loss.• Connecting Carriers.
• Publicly licenses to provide transportation services to general public.
• Common Carriers are strictly liable for damages except if the damages caused by: – An act of God.– An act of the public enemy.– An order of the public authority.– An act of the shipper.– The inherent nature of the goods.
• Shipper’s loss.• Connecting Carriers.
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Special Bailments: Warehouses and Innkeepers
Special Bailments: Warehouses and Innkeepers
• Warehouses:– Owe duty of reasonable care.– Can’t exculpate, can limit.
• Innkeepers:– Owe duty of strict liability, modified by
state statutes; if innkeeper provides safe and notifies guests.
– If parking area provided and innkeeper accepts bailment, then may be liable.
• Warehouses:– Owe duty of reasonable care.– Can’t exculpate, can limit.
• Innkeepers:– Owe duty of strict liability, modified by
state statutes; if innkeeper provides safe and notifies guests.
– If parking area provided and innkeeper accepts bailment, then may be liable.
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Termination of BailmentsTermination of Bailments
• Mutual agreement of both parties.
• Demand by either party.
• Completion of the purpose of the bailment.
• Act by the bailee that is inconsistent with the terms of the bailment.
• Operation of law.
• Mutual agreement of both parties.
• Demand by either party.
• Completion of the purpose of the bailment.
• Act by the bailee that is inconsistent with the terms of the bailment.
• Operation of law.
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Life EstatesLife Estates• Estate that lasts for the life of some specified
individual. “A grants to B for B’s life” grants B a life estate in land/house.
• When B dies, B returns to A or his heirs or assigns, or a third party in the same condition, normal wear and tear excepted.
• Grantor A retains a “future interest” in the property.
• During B’s life, she can possess, use, and take the fruits of the estate, but not take from the property itself.
• Estate that lasts for the life of some specified individual. “A grants to B for B’s life” grants B a life estate in land/house.
• When B dies, B returns to A or his heirs or assigns, or a third party in the same condition, normal wear and tear excepted.
• Grantor A retains a “future interest” in the property.
• During B’s life, she can possess, use, and take the fruits of the estate, but not take from the property itself.
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• An easement is a right of a person to make limited use of another person's real property without taking anything from the property.
• A profit is the right to go onto land in possession of another and take away some part of the land itself or some product of the land.
• Property that is benefited by easement/profit carries the the interest with the sale of land.
• An easement is a right of a person to make limited use of another person's real property without taking anything from the property.
• A profit is the right to go onto land in possession of another and take away some part of the land itself or some product of the land.
• Property that is benefited by easement/profit carries the the interest with the sale of land.
Nonpossessory Interests Nonpossessory Interests
4545
Nonpossessory InterestsNonpossessory Interests
• Easements or profits can be created by:– Deed (physical delivery is sufficient).– Will (at Grantor’s death).– Contract between Grantor and Grantee.– Implication: circumstances surrounding
creation of easement imply its creation.– Necessity.– Prescription: easement by adverse
possession.
• Easements or profits can be created by:– Deed (physical delivery is sufficient).– Will (at Grantor’s death).– Contract between Grantor and Grantee.– Implication: circumstances surrounding
creation of easement imply its creation.– Necessity.– Prescription: easement by adverse
possession.
4646
Transfer of Ownership Transfer of Ownership
• Ownership in real property can be transferred by: – A written Deed.– A Gift.– A Sale.– An Inheritance.– Adverse Possession.– Eminent Domain.
• Ownership in real property can be transferred by: – A written Deed.– A Gift.– A Sale.– An Inheritance.– Adverse Possession.– Eminent Domain.
4747
DeedsDeeds
• A Deed is the instrument setting forth the interests in real property being transferred.
• Necessary components of a Deed:– Names of Grantor and Grantee.– Words evidencing intent to convey.– Legally sufficient description of the land.– Grantor’s signature.– Delivery of the Deed.
• A Deed is the instrument setting forth the interests in real property being transferred.
• Necessary components of a Deed:– Names of Grantor and Grantee.– Words evidencing intent to convey.– Legally sufficient description of the land.– Grantor’s signature.– Delivery of the Deed.
4848
Types of DeedsTypes of Deeds
• Warranty Deed.– Special Warranty Deed.
• Quitclaim Deed.
• Grant Deed.
• Sheriff’s Deed.– Period of redemption.
• Warranty Deed.– Special Warranty Deed.
• Quitclaim Deed.
• Grant Deed.
• Sheriff’s Deed.– Period of redemption.
4949
• Recording a deed (or any interest in real property) puts the public on notice of the new owner’s interest in the land and prevents the previous owner from fraudulently conveying the same interest to another buyer.
• Recording a deed (or any interest in real property) puts the public on notice of the new owner’s interest in the land and prevents the previous owner from fraudulently conveying the same interest to another buyer.
Recording StatutesRecording Statutes
5050
Transfer By InheritanceTransfer By Inheritance
• Owner of real property dies, his property is transferred by:– Will (testate).
– Without Will (intestate).
• Title is transferred at the time state law so provides in its testate and intestate laws.
• Owner of real property dies, his property is transferred by:– Will (testate).
– Without Will (intestate).
• Title is transferred at the time state law so provides in its testate and intestate laws.
5151
Transfer By Adverse PossessionTransfer By Adverse Possession
• One person possesses the property of another for a certain statutory period of time, that person automatically acquires title to the land, just as if there had been a conveyance by deed. Must be:
• Actual and exclusive.• Open, visible and notorious.• Continuous and peaceable.• Hostile and adverse.
• One person possesses the property of another for a certain statutory period of time, that person automatically acquires title to the land, just as if there had been a conveyance by deed. Must be:
• Actual and exclusive.• Open, visible and notorious.• Continuous and peaceable.• Hostile and adverse.
5252
Eminent DomainEminent Domain• Rights in property are not absolute.
They are constrained by federal and state laws, e.g., nuisance, tax and environmental.
• A “Taking” By Eminent Domain: The 5th amendment gives the government the right to “take” private land for public use with just compensation.
• CASE 29.2 Kelo v. City of New London, Connecticut (2005).
• Rights in property are not absolute. They are constrained by federal and state laws, e.g., nuisance, tax and environmental.
• A “Taking” By Eminent Domain: The 5th amendment gives the government the right to “take” private land for public use with just compensation.
• CASE 29.2 Kelo v. City of New London, Connecticut (2005).
5353
Leasehold Estates Leasehold Estates • Anyone who rents housing to the public
for commercial purposes subjects herself to various state and federal Landlord-Tenant laws.
• Owner of the property is the LESSOR and Tenant is LESSEE; the contract is called the LEASE. The property interest is called a leasehold estate.
• Anyone who rents housing to the public for commercial purposes subjects herself to various state and federal Landlord-Tenant laws.
• Owner of the property is the LESSOR and Tenant is LESSEE; the contract is called the LEASE. The property interest is called a leasehold estate.
5454
• Lease Agreement can be oral or written (oral may not be enforceable). Lease gives Tenant the temporary right to exclusively possess the property.
• Sources of Law:– Common Law.– State and Local Statutes, and– The Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
(URLTA) which has been adopted by 1/4 of the states.
• Lease Agreement can be oral or written (oral may not be enforceable). Lease gives Tenant the temporary right to exclusively possess the property.
• Sources of Law:– Common Law.– State and Local Statutes, and– The Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
(URLTA) which has been adopted by 1/4 of the states.
Landlord-Tenant RelationshipsLandlord-Tenant Relationships
5555
Landlord-Tenant Lease Contract
Landlord-Tenant Lease Contract
• Form of the Contract:– Must express intent to establish the lease.– Provide for transfer of possession to the Tenant.– Provide for the Landlord’s “reversionary” interest.– Describe the property.– Indicate length of the term, amount of rent, when
and where rent paid.– Illegality.
• Form of the Contract:– Must express intent to establish the lease.– Provide for transfer of possession to the Tenant.– Provide for the Landlord’s “reversionary” interest.– Describe the property.– Indicate length of the term, amount of rent, when
and where rent paid.– Illegality.
5656
• Trend in the law is to curtail, by contract and real estate law, the immense freedom that Landlords had in the past.– Possession.
– Using the Premises.
– Maintaining the Premises.
– Rent.
• Trend in the law is to curtail, by contract and real estate law, the immense freedom that Landlords had in the past.– Possession.
– Using the Premises.
– Maintaining the Premises.
– Rent.
Rights and DutiesRights and Duties
5757
Rights and DutiesRights and Duties• Landlord has a duty to deliver actual
physical possession under URLTA or legal right to possession (“American” rule).
• Tenant’s right to exclusive possession is only subject to Landlord’s limited right to come unto the property.
• Tenant has a “covenant of quiet enjoyment” by which Landlord promises Tenant’s peace and enjoyment of the property.
• Landlord has a duty to deliver actual physical possession under URLTA or legal right to possession (“American” rule).
• Tenant’s right to exclusive possession is only subject to Landlord’s limited right to come unto the property.
• Tenant has a “covenant of quiet enjoyment” by which Landlord promises Tenant’s peace and enjoyment of the property.
5858
• Eviction occurs when Landlord:– Deprives Tenant of possession of the leased
property; or
– Interferes with this use or enjoyment of the property to the extent that Tenant cannot use or enjoy.
• Constructive eviction occurs when Landlord:– Breaches lease or covenant or quiet enjoyment;
and – Makes it impossible for the Tenant to use and enjoy
the property.
• Eviction occurs when Landlord:– Deprives Tenant of possession of the leased
property; or
– Interferes with this use or enjoyment of the property to the extent that Tenant cannot use or enjoy.
• Constructive eviction occurs when Landlord:– Breaches lease or covenant or quiet enjoyment;
and – Makes it impossible for the Tenant to use and enjoy
the property.
Rights and DutiesRights and Duties
5959
Rights and DutiesRights and Duties
• Tenant’s Duty Not To Commit Waste:– Tenant is liable for destruction or abuse of the
property.– Tenant not liable for normal wear and tear or
depreciation in value over time.
• Altering the Premises:– Tenant needs Landlord’s consent to make material
alterations.– Installation of fixtures become the property of the
Landlord. Whether Tenant can remove depends on state law and consent of Landlord.
• Tenant’s Duty Not To Commit Waste:– Tenant is liable for destruction or abuse of the
property.– Tenant not liable for normal wear and tear or
depreciation in value over time.
• Altering the Premises:– Tenant needs Landlord’s consent to make material
alterations.– Installation of fixtures become the property of the
Landlord. Whether Tenant can remove depends on state law and consent of Landlord.
6060
• Residential property -- Landlord must furnish premises in habitable condition.
• Landlord is responsible for maintaining common areas such as stairs, parking lots, elevators and swimming pools.
• Commercial property -- may still require Tenant to maintain depending on the lease.
• Residential property -- Landlord must furnish premises in habitable condition.
• Landlord is responsible for maintaining common areas such as stairs, parking lots, elevators and swimming pools.
• Commercial property -- may still require Tenant to maintain depending on the lease.
Rights and DutiesRights and Duties
6161
Rights and DutiesRights and Duties
• Implied Warranty of Habitability applies to major (substantial) defects if Landlord knew or should have known about & he had a reasonable time to repair.
• To determine breach, Courts consider:– Whether Tenant caused damage.– How long defect existed and age of building.– Defects impact on Tenant’s safety and health.– Whether defect contravenes relevant statutes.
• Implied Warranty of Habitability applies to major (substantial) defects if Landlord knew or should have known about & he had a reasonable time to repair.
• To determine breach, Courts consider:– Whether Tenant caused damage.– How long defect existed and age of building.– Defects impact on Tenant’s safety and health.– Whether defect contravenes relevant statutes.
6262
• If Landlord breaches the warranty of habitability, depending on state law, Tenant may:– Withhold rent -- put in escrow.– Repair and Deduct -- notify, repair, and deduct
repair from rent.– Cancel the Lease -- must be constructive
eviction or breach of habitability.– Sue for Damages -- difference between what
paid for and what received.
• If Landlord breaches the warranty of habitability, depending on state law, Tenant may:– Withhold rent -- put in escrow.– Repair and Deduct -- notify, repair, and deduct
repair from rent.– Cancel the Lease -- must be constructive
eviction or breach of habitability.– Sue for Damages -- difference between what
paid for and what received.
Tenant’s RemediesTenant’s Remedies
6363
Transferring Rights to Leased PropertyTransferring Rights to Leased Property
• Transferring Landlord's Interest.– Landlord may sell any and all of his
rights in the real property.– New owner buys “subject to the lease,”
if lease is recorded.
• Transferring Tenant’s Interest.– Landlord’s consent may or may not be
required by statute or the lease itself.
• Transferring Landlord's Interest.– Landlord may sell any and all of his
rights in the real property.– New owner buys “subject to the lease,”
if lease is recorded.
• Transferring Tenant’s Interest.– Landlord’s consent may or may not be
required by statute or the lease itself.
6464
• Transferring the Tenant’s Interest (cont’d)– Assignments: Tenant transfers his entire
interest in the lease to a third person. Original Tenant is not released from liability under the lease.
– Subleases: Tenant transfers all or part of his interest in the lease for a shorter period of time than the lease. Original Tenant is not relieved of liability under the lease.
• Transferring the Tenant’s Interest (cont’d)– Assignments: Tenant transfers his entire
interest in the lease to a third person. Original Tenant is not released from liability under the lease.
– Subleases: Tenant transfers all or part of his interest in the lease for a shorter period of time than the lease. Original Tenant is not relieved of liability under the lease.
Transferring RightsTransferring Rights
6565
• What is an insurable interest? When must an insurable interest exist—at the time the insurance policy is obtained, at the time the loss occurs, or both?
• Is an insurance broker the agent of the insurance applicant or the agent of the insurer?
• What are the basic requirements for executing a will? How may a will be revoked?
• What are the four essential elements of a trust? What is the difference between an express trust and an implied trust?
• What is an insurable interest? When must an insurable interest exist—at the time the insurance policy is obtained, at the time the loss occurs, or both?
• Is an insurance broker the agent of the insurance applicant or the agent of the insurer?
• What are the basic requirements for executing a will? How may a will be revoked?
• What are the four essential elements of a trust? What is the difference between an express trust and an implied trust?
Learning Objectives
6666
InsuranceInsurance• Insurance is a contractual arrangement for transferring
and allocating risk.• Risk.
– Prediction concerning potential loss based on known and unknown factors.
• Risk Management. – Involves the transfer of certain risks from the
individual to the insurance company by a contractual agreement.
– Page 620-621
• Insurance is a contractual arrangement for transferring and allocating risk.
• Risk. – Prediction concerning potential loss based on known
and unknown factors.• Risk Management.
– Involves the transfer of certain risks from the individual to the insurance company by a contractual agreement.
– Page 620-621
6767
Insurance TerminologyInsurance Terminology
• Classifications of Insurance.– All risk insurance (added terrorism).– CASE 30.1 Omni Berkshire Corp. v. Wells Fargo
Bank, N.A. (2004).
• Policy (Insurance contract).• Premium is the consideration to be paid to
the insurer. • Underwriter (usually an insurance company).• Broker v. Agent.
• Classifications of Insurance.– All risk insurance (added terrorism).– CASE 30.1 Omni Berkshire Corp. v. Wells Fargo
Bank, N.A. (2004).
• Policy (Insurance contract).• Premium is the consideration to be paid to
the insurer. • Underwriter (usually an insurance company).• Broker v. Agent.
6868
Insurable InterestInsurable Interest
• A person can insure anything in which he or she has an insurable interest.
• Types of insurable interest:– Life.
– Property.
– Automobile
– Business
Illegal Activity???
• A person can insure anything in which he or she has an insurable interest.
• Types of insurable interest:– Life.
– Property.
– Automobile
– Business
Illegal Activity???
6969
The Insurance ContractThe Insurance Contract
• Governed by the general principles of contract law, and regulated by the state.– Application is an offer, which insurance
company can either reject or accept.• Acceptance sometimes conditional.
– Need consideration.
– Parties need capacity.
• Governed by the general principles of contract law, and regulated by the state.– Application is an offer, which insurance
company can either reject or accept.• Acceptance sometimes conditional.
– Need consideration.
– Parties need capacity.
7070
The Insurance ContractThe Insurance Contract
• Application For Insurance.• Effective Date.• Provisions and Clauses.• Interpreting Provisions of an Insurance.
Contract.• Cancellation.• Basic Duties and Rights.• Defenses Against Payment.
• Application For Insurance.• Effective Date.• Provisions and Clauses.• Interpreting Provisions of an Insurance.
Contract.• Cancellation.• Basic Duties and Rights.• Defenses Against Payment.
7171
Insurance Contract: Application
Insurance Contract: Application
• Filled in application attached to the policy and made a part of the contract.
• Misstatements or misrepresentation can void a policy, specially if company can show it would not have issued policy if it had known the facts.
• Filled in application attached to the policy and made a part of the contract.
• Misstatements or misrepresentation can void a policy, specially if company can show it would not have issued policy if it had known the facts.
7272
Insurance Contract: Effective Date
Insurance Contract: Effective Date
• Broker is agent for the applicant.• Agent is agent for the insurance company. He can
issue a binder, if some consideration is paid, which will immediately bind the insurance company, depending on certain conditions being met.
• Parties may agree contract will not be effective until policy is issued and delivered or sent to applicant.
• Parties may agree policy will be binding, not be effective, until first premium paid, or physical exam passed.
• Broker is agent for the applicant.• Agent is agent for the insurance company. He can
issue a binder, if some consideration is paid, which will immediately bind the insurance company, depending on certain conditions being met.
• Parties may agree contract will not be effective until policy is issued and delivered or sent to applicant.
• Parties may agree policy will be binding, not be effective, until first premium paid, or physical exam passed.
7373
Insurance Contract: Provisions
and Clauses
Insurance Contract: Provisions
and Clauses• Provisions Mandated by Statute.
• Incontestability Clauses.
• Coinsurance Clauses.
• Appraisal and Arbitration Clauses.
• Multiple Insurance Coverage.
• Antilapse Clauses.
• Provisions Mandated by Statute.
• Incontestability Clauses.
• Coinsurance Clauses.
• Appraisal and Arbitration Clauses.
• Multiple Insurance Coverage.
• Antilapse Clauses.
7474
Insurance Contract: Incontestability Clauses
Insurance Contract: Incontestability Clauses
• State statutes sometimes provide that once a life or health insurance policy has been in force for a specified length of time, the insurer cannot contest statements made in the application.
• State statutes sometimes provide that once a life or health insurance policy has been in force for a specified length of time, the insurer cannot contest statements made in the application.
7575
Insurance Contract: Coinsurance ClausesInsurance Contract:
Coinsurance Clauses• If owner insures her property for at least 80% of
its value, owner will be able to recover up to the face value of the policy.
• If owner insures for less than 80%, owner will be responsible for a proportionate share of the loss.
• If owner insures her property for at least 80% of its value, owner will be able to recover up to the face value of the policy.
• If owner insures for less than 80%, owner will be responsible for a proportionate share of the loss.
Amount of insurance recovery Coinsurance percentage = percentage(80%) x Property value
7676
Insurance Contract: Appraisal and Arbitration Clauses
Insurance Contract: Appraisal and Arbitration Clauses
• If insurer and insured cannot agree on value of property, an appraisal can be demanded.
• Contract may also provide for arbitration.
• If insurer and insured cannot agree on value of property, an appraisal can be demanded.
• Contract may also provide for arbitration.
7777
Insurance Contract: Cancellation and Good Faith
Insurance Contract: Cancellation and Good Faith
• Cancellation.– Insured can cancel policy at any time, and
the insurer can cancel according to terms of policy.
– Insurer must give written notice of cancellation.
• Good Faith Obligations.– CASE 30.2 Columbia National Insurance
Co. v. Freeman (2002).
• Cancellation.– Insured can cancel policy at any time, and
the insurer can cancel according to terms of policy.
– Insurer must give written notice of cancellation.
• Good Faith Obligations.– CASE 30.2 Columbia National Insurance
Co. v. Freeman (2002).
7878
Defenses Against PaymentDefenses Against Payment
• Insurance company can raise any of the defenses that would be valid in any ordinary action or contract:– Fraud, misrepresentation.
• Not if information given was optional.• Not incorrect statement of age.
– Concurrent causation doctrine.
• Insurance company can raise any of the defenses that would be valid in any ordinary action or contract:– Fraud, misrepresentation.
• Not if information given was optional.• Not incorrect statement of age.
– Concurrent causation doctrine.
Business Liability InsuranceBusiness Liability Insurance
• A business may be vulnerable to all sorts of risks……
• General Liability
• Product Liability
• Professional Malpractice
• Workers’ Compensation
• Endless Risk…..
• A business may be vulnerable to all sorts of risks……
• General Liability
• Product Liability
• Professional Malpractice
• Workers’ Compensation
• Endless Risk…..7979
WillsWills• A will is the final declaration of the
disposition that a person desires to have made of his or her property after death. A will is referred to as a testamentary disposition of property. It is a formal instrument that must follow exactly the requirements of the appropriate state’s statutes to be effective. A will becomes effective only upon the death of the testator.
• A will is the final declaration of the disposition that a person desires to have made of his or her property after death. A will is referred to as a testamentary disposition of property. It is a formal instrument that must follow exactly the requirements of the appropriate state’s statutes to be effective. A will becomes effective only upon the death of the testator.
8080
8181
WillsWills
• Will provides for a disposition of property by the Testator (one making the will).– A will is the final declaration of how a person desires to
have his or her property disposed of after death.
• Die testate (One who dies after having made a valid will) or
• Intestate (without a will). (Passes to State)• Executor is a personal representative named in
the will. • Administrator appointed by court.
• Will provides for a disposition of property by the Testator (one making the will).– A will is the final declaration of how a person desires to
have his or her property disposed of after death.
• Die testate (One who dies after having made a valid will) or
• Intestate (without a will). (Passes to State)• Executor is a personal representative named in
the will. • Administrator appointed by court.
WillsWills
• What are the four basic requirements for a valid will?
• (1) must be in writing;
• (2) signed by the testator;
• (3) witnessed by two or three witnesses; and
• (4) published (declared by the testator to the witnesses that the document they are about to sign is his or her “last will and testament”).
• What are the four basic requirements for a valid will?
• (1) must be in writing;
• (2) signed by the testator;
• (3) witnessed by two or three witnesses; and
• (4) published (declared by the testator to the witnesses that the document they are about to sign is his or her “last will and testament”).
8282
8383
Types of Testamentary GiftsTypes of Testamentary Gifts
• Devise: gift of real estate.• Bequest or Legacy: gift of personal property.• Types of Gifts:
– specific– general, or – residuary.
• Abatement.• Lapsed Legacies.
• Devise: gift of real estate.• Bequest or Legacy: gift of personal property.• Types of Gifts:
– specific– general, or – residuary.
• Abatement.• Lapsed Legacies.
8484
Requirements for a Valid WillRequirements for a Valid Will
• Testamentary Capacity and Intent.– Legal age and sound mind
• Writing Requirements.– Multiple Signature Requirements.
• Witness Requirements.– Multiple Witness Requirements.
• Publication Requirements.– Only in some States
• Testamentary Capacity and Intent.– Legal age and sound mind
• Writing Requirements.– Multiple Signature Requirements.
• Witness Requirements.– Multiple Witness Requirements.
• Publication Requirements.– Only in some States
8585
Revocation of WillsRevocation of Wills• Revocation by a Physical Act of the Market.
– Burning, tearing, canceling, etc, etc, at the maker’s direction
• Revocation by a Subsequent Writing.– A new will may revoke a prior will, depending on the
language. If there are inconsistent dispositions, the second will controls.
• Revocation By Operation of Law.– A marriage, divorce or annulment, or the birth of
children after a will has been executed generally revokes a will. Depending on State laws, new children get intestate shares, and an ex-spouse gets nothing.
• Revocation by a Physical Act of the Market.– Burning, tearing, canceling, etc, etc, at the maker’s
direction
• Revocation by a Subsequent Writing.– A new will may revoke a prior will, depending on the
language. If there are inconsistent dispositions, the second will controls.
• Revocation By Operation of Law.– A marriage, divorce or annulment, or the birth of
children after a will has been executed generally revokes a will. Depending on State laws, new children get intestate shares, and an ex-spouse gets nothing.
Basic requirements for executing a willBasic requirements for executing a will
• Basic requirements for executing a will include testamentary capacity and intent, a writing, the testator’s signature, witnesses’ attestation, and in some states publication
• The will’s maker may revoke a will by a physical act, includ ing by writing a later will. Wills can also be revoked by operation of law, which includes marriage, divorce, annulment, and the birth of a child
• Basic requirements for executing a will include testamentary capacity and intent, a writing, the testator’s signature, witnesses’ attestation, and in some states publication
• The will’s maker may revoke a will by a physical act, includ ing by writing a later will. Wills can also be revoked by operation of law, which includes marriage, divorce, annulment, and the birth of a child
8686
8787
Intestacy Laws Intestacy Laws • Statues of descent and distribution which attempt
to carry out the likely “natural” intent and wishes of the decedent.– Surviving Spouse and Children, Not in-laws.– Stepchildren, Adopted children, Illegitimate
children.– Grandchildren.
Intestacy statutes set out rules and priorities under which “natural” heirs inherit property (after estate debts are paid). The rules vary widely from state to state
• Statues of descent and distribution which attempt to carry out the likely “natural” intent and wishes of the decedent.– Surviving Spouse and Children, Not in-laws.– Stepchildren, Adopted children, Illegitimate
children.– Grandchildren.
Intestacy statutes set out rules and priorities under which “natural” heirs inherit property (after estate debts are paid). The rules vary widely from state to state
8888
Surviving Spouse and ChildrenSurviving Spouse and Children
• Surviving spouse usually receives only a share of the estate.– 1/3 if two or more children.– 1/2 if one surviving child.– Entire estate if no children or grandchildren.
• If no surviving spouse or child the order of inheritance is:– Lineal descendants. – (order of grandchildren, brothers
& sisters, and possibly parents)– Collateral heirs (if no lineal descendants). (nieces,
nephews, aunts & uncles)
• Not spouses of the children, in-laws.
• Surviving spouse usually receives only a share of the estate.– 1/3 if two or more children.– 1/2 if one surviving child.– Entire estate if no children or grandchildren.
• If no surviving spouse or child the order of inheritance is:– Lineal descendants. – (order of grandchildren, brothers
& sisters, and possibly parents)– Collateral heirs (if no lineal descendants). (nieces,
nephews, aunts & uncles)
• Not spouses of the children, in-laws.
8989
Stepchildren, Adopted Children, Illegitimate Children
Stepchildren, Adopted Children, Illegitimate Children
• Stepchildren -- not considered children of deceased.
• Adopted children -- considered children of deceased.
• Illegitimate -- must prove paternity.
• Legally adopted children are heirs; stepchildren are not. An illegitimate child is an heir of the mother, but not of the father, unless paternity is established before death
• Stepchildren -- not considered children of deceased.
• Adopted children -- considered children of deceased.
• Illegitimate -- must prove paternity.
• Legally adopted children are heirs; stepchildren are not. An illegitimate child is an heir of the mother, but not of the father, unless paternity is established before death
9090
GrandchildrenGrandchildren
• Per stirpes.– Method of dividing an intestate share by
which a class or group of distributees take the share that their deceased parent would have been entitled to inherit had that parent lived.
• Per capita.– Each person takes an equal share of the
estate.
• Per stirpes.– Method of dividing an intestate share by
which a class or group of distributees take the share that their deceased parent would have been entitled to inherit had that parent lived.
• Per capita.– Each person takes an equal share of the
estate.
GrandchildrenGrandchildren
• Distribution in the context of children surviving their parents and grandparents, with a grandparent as testator.
• Per stirpes distribution dictates that grandchildren share the part of the estate that their deceased parent (and descendant of the deceased grandparent) would have been entitled to inherit.
• Per capita distribution dictates that each of these grandchildren takes an equal share of the estate.– The most preferred method
• Distribution in the context of children surviving their parents and grandparents, with a grandparent as testator.
• Per stirpes distribution dictates that grandchildren share the part of the estate that their deceased parent (and descendant of the deceased grandparent) would have been entitled to inherit.
• Per capita distribution dictates that each of these grandchildren takes an equal share of the estate.– The most preferred method 9191
9292
TrustsTrusts
• Trust -- A right of property (real or personal) held by one party for the benefit of another.
• Trustee: holds property on behalf of the Beneficiary. – Act with honesty, good faith, and
prudence in administering the trust and must exercise a high degree of loyalty toward the trust beneficiaries.
• Trust -- A right of property (real or personal) held by one party for the benefit of another.
• Trustee: holds property on behalf of the Beneficiary. – Act with honesty, good faith, and
prudence in administering the trust and must exercise a high degree of loyalty toward the trust beneficiaries.
9393
Essential Elements of a TrustEssential Elements of a Trust
• Essential Elements:– Designated beneficiary.
– Designated trustee.
– Fund sufficiently identified to enable title to pass to the trustee.
– Actual delivery to the trustee with the intention of passing title.
• Essential Elements:– Designated beneficiary.
– Designated trustee.
– Fund sufficiently identified to enable title to pass to the trustee.
– Actual delivery to the trustee with the intention of passing title.
9494
Express TrustsExpress Trusts• Living Trusts. (created during life, not death)
– Text refers to living trust as inter vivos trust• Testamentary Trusts.
– Created by will on the settlor’s death (if the will is invalid, the trust is invalid)
• Charitable Trusts.• Spendthrift Trusts. - provide maintenance that prevents
beneficiary from careless spending.
• Totten Trusts. – deposits of money by trustor for benefit of another.
• Created or declared in explicit terms
• Living Trusts. (created during life, not death)– Text refers to living trust as inter vivos trust
• Testamentary Trusts.– Created by will on the settlor’s death (if the will is invalid, the trust is
invalid)
• Charitable Trusts.• Spendthrift Trusts. - provide maintenance that prevents
beneficiary from careless spending.
• Totten Trusts. – deposits of money by trustor for benefit of another.
• Created or declared in explicit terms
9595
Implied TrustsImplied Trusts
• Constructive Trusts.– Arises by operation of the law in the interest of equity
and fairness.• recover property (and sometimes damages) from
defendants who would other wise be unjustly enriched
• Resulting Trusts.– Arises from the conduct of the parties.
Imposed trust is imposed by law, even in the absence of an express trust
• Constructive Trusts.– Arises by operation of the law in the interest of equity
and fairness.• recover property (and sometimes damages) from
defendants who would other wise be unjustly enriched
• Resulting Trusts.– Arises from the conduct of the parties.
Imposed trust is imposed by law, even in the absence of an express trust
TrustTrust
• What four elements must be present to create a valid trust?
• (1) a designated beneficiary;
• (2) a designated trustee;
• (3) a fund sufficiently identified to enable title to pass to the trustee; and (4) actual delivery of the property to the trustee with the intention of passing title.
•
• What four elements must be present to create a valid trust?
• (1) a designated beneficiary;
• (2) a designated trustee;
• (3) a fund sufficiently identified to enable title to pass to the trustee; and (4) actual delivery of the property to the trustee with the intention of passing title.
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