San Francisco Partition Lawyer


Talkov Law Partition Attorneys

50 California St, Ste 1500

San Francisco, CA 94111

(415) 966-3300

info@talkovlaw.com

San Francisco’s sky-high property values, shared homeownership, and limited housing supply make it a frequent setting for real estate disputes. Whether it’s a multi-million-dollar flat in the Mission, a family home in Noe Valley, or an inherited Victorian in the Sunset, co-owners often clash over whether to sell, stay, or buy each other out.

If you’re stuck in a dispute over jointly owned property, a San Francisco partition attorney can help. At Talkov Law, our team focuses exclusively on partition actions—using California law to file lawsuits that force a sale or division when co-owners can’t agree.

With eleven full-time attorneys and over partition cases handled across the state, we’re the leading San Francisco partition lawyers for resolving high-stakes co-ownership conflicts efficiently and effectively. From relationship breakdowns to probate disputes, we help clients protect their equity and move on.


Why Choose Talkov Law as Your San Francisco Partition Lawyer?

California’s Largest Partition Law Firm

Talkov Law is California’s largest law firm exclusively dedicated to partition actions. With eleven full-time partition attorneys, we bring unmatched focus and legal precision to every case—no other firm in the state concentrates solely on this complex area of law.

Over 500 Partition Actions Successfully Resolved

Talkov Law has extensive experience, having handled more than 500 partition actions across California, making us the most trusted name in co-ownership dispute resolution.

Trusted Partition Attorneys for San Francisco Real Estate

Talkov Law’s San Francisco partition attorneys understand the city’s complex property landscape—from inherited Victorians in Noe Valley to high-equity condos in SoMa. We help co-owners resolve disputes quickly and fairly, ensuring your rights and equity are protected every step of the way.

Hundreds of Millions in Real Estate Sold or Refinanced

In San Francisco’s high-value market, our partition actions have helped co-owners unlock and recover equity from hundreds of millions in California real estate. Whether it’s a classic Edwardian in the Mission or a multi-unit building in the Sunset, we focus on maximizing your financial outcome..

Availability for Free Consultations

We offer free consultations because we understand how stressful co-ownership disputes can be. Whether you’re an heir, investor, or former partner, our attorneys will review your case and help you take the next step toward resolution.
We help co-owners of valuable San Francisco properties force a sale, recover equity, and move on—fast, fair, and with maximum return.

Contact Talkov Law For Help


Contact Talkov Law Partition Attorneys today for a free consultation and let California’s largest and most trusted partition law firm guide you to a successful resolution.

Partition Cases We Handle in San Francisco

At Talkov Law, we handle a wide range of partition actions in San Francisco, each presenting its own legal and financial complexities. Our attorneys focus exclusively on partition law, allowing us to tailor strategies to the unique dynamics of San Francisco’s real estate market, including:

Inherited Properties

Disputes over inherited homes in San Francisco are common, especially given the city’s high property values. Whether it’s a Sunset Victorian or a Mission District flat, our partition attorneys help heirs resolve disagreements through buyouts or court-ordered sales—protecting your equity while handling sensitive family dynamics.

Commercial Properties

Commercial real estate in San Francisco—whether it’s a retail unit in the Mission, a mixed-use property in SoMa, or a tech-adjacent space near South Beach—often involves multiple owners with conflicting goals. Our San Francisco partition attorneys resolve these disputes efficiently, focusing on preserving income, equity, and the long-term value of your investment.

Multi-Property Disputes

In San Francisco, co-owners of multiple properties—such as multi-unit flats in the Richmond District or storefronts in the Mission—often face added challenges when disputes arise. Our San Francisco partition attorneys simplify the process by handling all properties in a single legal action, ensuring an efficient and equitable resolution.

Ex Boyfriend / Ex Girlfriend Property Disputes

When unmarried couples in San Francisco separate, dividing jointly owned real estate can quickly turn contentious. Since they lack the legal safeguards of marriage, a partition action is often the most effective way to determine ownership rights and ensure a fair division of the property.

High Value Property

In San Francisco’s competitive housing market, high-value homes and shared investments require a strategic legal approach. From property valuations to disputes over contributions and reimbursements, our San Francisco partition attorneys are focused on safeguarding your equity throughout the process.

Intra-Family Disputes

In San Francisco, co-ownership among siblings, parents and children, or other relatives can quickly turn into conflict over how to manage or sell inherited or jointly owned property. Our San Francisco partition lawyers bring both legal expertise and sensitivity to resolve these family disputes while aiming to protect relationships and financial interests alike.

Contact Talkov Law For Help


Contact Talkov Law Partition Attorneys today for a free consultation and let California’s largest and most trusted partition law firm guide you to a successful resolution.

Common Partition Disputes in San Francisco

San Francisco’s unique real estate landscape—marked by dense housing, high property values, and complex ownership structures—frequently leads to co-ownership disputes. Partition actions often become necessary when financial goals or living arrangements diverge among co-owners. Some of the most common situations we see include:

  • Multi-Unit Property Conflicts: Co-owners of duplexes, triplexes, and TICs often disagree over usage, renovations, or whether to sell, especially in popular areas like the Mission and Noe Valley.
  • Inherited Victorians in Prime Neighborhoods: Heirs may clash over what to do with high-value legacy homes in areas like Pacific Heights or the Inner Sunset—particularly when one wants to live there and others want a payout.
  • Rent-Controlled Investment Disputes: San Francisco’s strict rent laws can make co-owned income properties financially challenging, sparking disagreements when one party wants to sell and exit.
  • Equity and Contribution Disputes: As property values soar, co-owners often disagree on who deserves more of the profit, especially when one person paid more or lived in the home exclusively.
  • Out-of-Area Co-Owners: When one co-owner lives out of state—or abroad—and delays decisions, local owners may need to file for partition to regain control and access their equity.

Who Can File a San Francisco Partition Action?

In San Francisco, any co-owner listed on the property title has the legal right to file a partition action—no matter how small their ownership interest. California Code of Civil Procedure § 872.210 guarantees this right unless a valid written agreement says otherwise.

Partition actions in San Francisco are commonly filed by:

  • Beneficiaries who inherited property with others and can’t agree on what to do with it
  • Former couples who bought a home together but are no longer in a relationship
  • Co-investors in multi-unit or mixed-use properties with diverging financial goals
  • Family members jointly owning long-held properties without formal arrangements

At Talkov Law, our San Francisco partition attorneys help co-owners break through deadlocks and move forward—whether through a court-ordered sale or negotiated buyout.

Taking Action on Co-Owned Property in San Francisco

When co-owners can’t agree on how to manage, sell, or divide real estate, a partition action allows one party to take control of the situation. In San Francisco, this legal process can involve everything from filing a complaint in Superior Court to appointing a neutral referee and ensuring a fair sale or buyout.

At Talkov Law, we guide clients through every stage of a partition action—backed by our exclusive focus on partition law and our deep understanding of San Francisco’s unique market. From luxury flats in Pacific Heights to mixed-use properties in the Mission, we know how to protect your financial stake and resolve co-ownership disputes efficiently.

If you’re ready to move on from a deadlocked property, our San Francisco partition attorneys can help you take the next step with confidence.

San Francisco’s real estate market remains one of the most competitive in the nation. According to Redfin’s San Francisco Housing Report, as of April 2025, the median home sale price reached $1.5 million, marking a 3.9% increase year-over-year. Homes typically receive multiple offers and go pending in about 20 days, reflecting strong buyer demand .

This high-demand environment often leads to co-ownership disputes, especially when parties have differing intentions for the property. Whether it’s an inherited Victorian in the Sunset District or a multi-unit building in the Mission, disagreements over selling, refinancing, or property management are common.

Partition actions provide a legal pathway to resolve such disputes, allowing co-owners to either divide the property or force a sale, ensuring equitable distribution of assets. With Talkov Law’s extensive experience in handling partition cases throughout San Francisco, we are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the local market and protect your financial interests.

Why You Need a San Francisco Partition Lawyer Instead of Handling It Yourself

Trying to navigate a partition action alone in San Francisco can backfire quickly. With sky-high property values and complicated co-ownership scenarios, even one mistake can cost you thousands. A knowledgeable San Francisco partition lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your outcome is financially sound.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Local Court Experience – We know San Francisco Superior Court procedures and how to move your case forward efficiently.
  • Equity Protection – We help maximize your share by handling valuation, reimbursements, and sale strategy with precision.
  • Tough Opponents – If your co-owner hires an attorney, you risk being outmaneuvered without your own legal representation.
  • Mistake Prevention – Filing errors, missed deadlines, or poorly drafted complaints can delay or even derail your case.
  • No Guesswork – We guide you through every step of the partition process so you can focus on results, not paperwork.

With Talkov Law’s proven track record in hundreds of partition actions across California, we deliver the legal strategy you need—right here in San Francisco.

What Is a Partition Action?

A partition action is a legal process that allows a co-owner of real estate to ask the court to divide or sell the property when the other co-owners won’t agree. Under California law, every co-owner has an absolute right to partition unless there’s a valid written agreement saying otherwise.

What Makes a San Francisco Partition Action Unique?

The legal definition of a partition action is the same across California, including in San Francisco. However, local procedures—like filing in the San Francisco County Superior Court and navigating the city’s rent control laws, zoning restrictions, and competitive real estate market—can significantly impact the timeline, valuation, and outcome of your case.

San Francisco partition actions often involve multi-million-dollar properties, unwritten agreements between co-owners, and disputes over rent-controlled units or inherited homes. That’s why hiring a San Francisco partition attorney who understands the local court system and real estate landscape is essential to protecting your equity and resolving the dispute efficiently.

How Much Does a Partition Action Cost in San Francisco?

Partition actions in San Francisco generally cost around $20,000, though the total can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Simpler matters may cost as little as $5,000, while disputes involving high-value properties, uncooperative co-owners, or complex reimbursement claims can be significantly more expensive.

Typical costs include attorney’s fees, court filings, property appraisals, partition referee oversight, and related legal services. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 874.040, these expenses are usually split between the co-owners based on ownership percentages. However, the court may shift costs toward a co-owner who causes delays or acts unreasonably.

With San Francisco’s high property values and unique legal landscape, working with a local partition attorney ensures your case is handled efficiently—and that your financial interest is fully protected.

How Long Does a Partition Action Take in San Francisco?

At Talkov Law, most San Francisco partition actions are resolved in approximately 7 months—often faster than the state average—thanks to our exclusive focus on partition law and deep understanding of the local market. When co-owners are open to a buyout or court-supervised sale, our attorneys move quickly to resolve disputes and maximize client recovery.

San Francisco’s competitive real estate landscape—with high-value homes in neighborhoods like Pacific Heights, Noe Valley, and the Sunset District—can present added complexity. Disputes involving valuations, liens, or reimbursement claims often require detailed appraisals and strategic court filings.

With local expertise and a streamlined legal process, our San Francisco partition attorneys help clients avoid unnecessary delays and protect their financial interests every step of the way.

Trusted Partition Attorneys for San Francisco’s Most Valuable Neighborhoods

Talkov Law Partition Attorneys

50 California St, Ste 1500

San Francisco, CA 94111

(415) 966-3300

info@talkovlaw.com

Talkov Law Partition Attorneys serves clients across San Francisco, providing expert legal representation in partition actions involving some of the city’s most valuable real estate. Our attorneys handle disputes involving historic Victorians in Haight-Ashbury, luxury condos in SoMa, investment properties in the Mission District, and multi-unit buildings in Nob Hill.

From coastal neighborhoods to downtown high-rises, Talkov Law is a trusted partner for resolving real estate co-ownership disputes in San Francisco and the Bay Area. In addition to serving clients throughout San Francisco, our partition attorneys represent property owners in nearby areas including Oakland, Berkeley, Daly City, San Mateo County, Contra Costa County, Alameda County, Marin County, San Rafael, and Richmond.

Whether you’re facing a disagreement with family members, former partners, or co-investors, Talkov Law combines local insight with statewide experience to help San Francisco property owners resolve disputes and recover their equity—efficiently and effectively.

Talkov Law Partition Attorneys proudly serves property owners throughout the city of San Francisco, offering expert legal guidance in partition actions for:

  • Seacliff
  • Presidio Heights
  • Russian Hill
  • Nob Hill
  • Noe Valley
  • Cow Hollow
  • Marina District

  • Pacific Heights
  • Clarendon Heights
  • Telegraph Hill
  • Cole Valley
  • Corona Heights
  • And Many More…

Talkov Law’s San Francisco Partition Attorneys

Talkov Law proudly serves clients throughout San Francisco, offering trusted legal guidance in partition actions and real estate disputes. Our centrally located office makes it easy for property owners across the Bay Area to access skilled representation.

Featured In…

Untangling Silicon Valley Co-Ownership Gone Wrong

San Francisco’s tech-driven real estate rush saw thousands of young professionals—often friends, roommates, or couples—buying homes together at the height of the market. Fueled by high-paying jobs, stock options, and the dream of building long-term equity, these co-ownership arrangements were common in neighborhoods like Noe Valley, Bernal Heights, and the Mission.

But when personal or professional relationships break down, these jointly owned properties become legal battlegrounds.

We regularly help clients in scenarios like:

  • Two former software engineers who bought a fixer-upper during the IPO boom, now fighting over who gets to keep it
  • Roommates turned co-owners who can’t agree on selling their shared Mission condo
  • Exes who pooled cash and crypto to buy in 2020—and now one wants out while the other refuses to sell

In these cases, a partition action is often the only way to break the stalemate. Whether the property has appreciated substantially or come with a complicated loan structure, our San Francisco partition attorneys know how to unwind these modern real estate partnerships fairly and efficiently.

Let us help you turn a sour tech-era investment into a clean financial exit.

Getting Your Money Faster with Talkov Law Partition Attorneys

In San Francisco partition law, speed is everything—and no firm moves faster than Talkov Law.

As California’s first and only law firm focused exclusively on partition actions, Talkov Law has become the go-to choice for co-owners seeking fast, strategic resolutions in the Bay Area’s high-stakes real estate market.

Delays in partition litigation can cost you serious equity—especially in San Francisco, where every month off-market can mean tens of thousands in lost value. While other firms stumble through generic legal tactics, Talkov Law has streamlined the process with proven systems designed to accelerate results and maximize recovery.

With over partition actions handled and eleven full-time partition lawyers on our team, we don’t just understand California partition law—we define it. Whether it’s a disputed TIC in the Mission, an inherited Victorian in the Sunset, or a luxury condo in Nob Hill, we bring unmatched speed and expertise to protect your rights.

Why leave your future tied up in a legal stalemate? Trust the San Francisco partition lawyers who deliver results when timing matters most. Trust Talkov Law.

Filing your partition action now could be the difference between a fair outcome and months of frustration. Talkov Law helps you act quickly, strategically, and confidently—so you don’t lose out by waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our San Francisco Partition Lawyers

You can still file. As long as you’re on title, the court can proceed without their physical presence.

Partition is still possible, but rent-controlled units may affect valuation and marketability. We account for this in strategy.

Courts typically order appraisals to ensure fair market value. Our attorneys negotiate or litigate to protect your share.

The court may award reimbursement offsets, but only for verifiable contributions like mortgage, taxes, or repairs.

Results for Our Clients in California

California

$50 Million Recovered

Mobile Home Park in Southern California
California

$9 Million Recovered

Apartment Building in Northern California
California

$9 Million Recovered

Hotel in Southern California
California

$3 Million Recovered

Home in Southern Orange County

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San Francisco Partition Case Study – Summers v. Superior Court (Cal. Ct. App. 2018)

Case Summary

In Summers v. Superior Court (2018), co-owners of a San Francisco investment property became embroiled in a partition dispute. One co-owner sought an immediate court-ordered sale before the court had resolved disagreements over each party’s ownership percentage, arguing the proceeds could be held in escrow.

Legal Issue

The main issue was whether a court can order a partition sale before determining the ownership interests of the parties. The opposing co-owners argued that the sale was premature, as their legal shares had not yet been adjudicated.

Outcome

The California Court of Appeal reversed the trial court’s sale order, holding that a partition sale cannot proceed until the court determines the parties’ respective ownership interests. This case reinforces the rule that partition actions must follow proper procedure—and that title clarity must come before a court can divide or sell jointly owned property.

More Resources for San Francisco Partition Actions

How Are Proceeds Divided After a Partition Sale?

When co-owners of real estate can no longer agree on how to manage, use, or sell a property, a partition action becomes the legal solution to resolve the dispute. One of the most common outcomes of a partition action is a partition by sale, where the property is sold, and the proceeds are divided among … Read More
What is the Purpose of a Case Management Conference in a California Partition Action?

What is a Case Management Conference in a Partition Action?

In a California partition action, the case management conference promotes timely resolution through an open hearing involving the attorneys and judge. Its purpose, as mandated by California Rules of Court, is to facilitate communication among parties and ensure essential issues are exposed early in the litigation process. However, contrary to what many co-owners may believe, … Read More
How to Piece Together a Property's Title History

How to Piece Together a Property’s Title History

A property’s title history reveals its ownership trail, liens, and any disputes or irregularities that might affect your rights as the new owner. When purchasing or investing in real property, understanding its title history is crucial. Why is a Property’s Legal Title Important? Legal title is important because Evidence Code § 662 provides that: “The … Read More

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Awards and Recognition

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Offices Throughout California

Los Angeles Partition Attorneys
10880 Wilshire Blvd Ste 1101
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Phone: (310) 496-3300

Orange County Partition Attorneys
4000 MacArthur Blvd Ste 655
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone: (949) 888-8800

San Jose Partition Attorneys
99 S. Almaden Blvd Suite 600
San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 777-6800

San Diego Partition Attorneys
11622 El Camino Real Ste 100
San Diego, CA 92130
Phone: (858) 800-3300

San Francisco Partition Attorneys
50 California St, Ste 1500
San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: (415) 966-3300

Riverside Partition Attorneys
3610 Central Ave, Ste 400
Riverside, CA 92506
Phone: (951) 888-3300

Sacramento Partition Attorneys
500 Capitol Mall, Suite 2350
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 668-3300

The information on this site, including the Talkov Law Blog, is intended for general information purposes only. By using this site, you agree that any information contained in the site does not constitute legal, financial or any other form of professional advice. Information on this site may be changed without notice and is not guaranteed to be complete, accurate, correct or up-to-date.