Hey, so here’s the situation: both me and my ex had our names on the vehicle loan, but it was actually my gf who paid off the whole thing. No real discussions or agreements about ownership, and now that we’ve separated, my ex is trying to take the car. Anyone know what the next steps might be? Like, how can she prove the car is really hers since she paid everything off? Any help would be appreciated!
Hmm, that’s a tough one. If your name isn’t on the title, it could be a bit easier for her to claim ownership, especially if she has proof of all the payments. IDK if it’s a small claims court thing, but might be worth looking into.
@Sophia
Yeah, small claims court sounds like the way to go. She can argue that the payments came from her account and show that she fully covered the loan. The title could be the big factor here tho.
Tal said:
@Sophia
Yeah, small claims court sounds like the way to go. She can argue that the payments came from her account and show that she fully covered the loan. The title could be the big factor here tho.
Gotcha, so if the title’s only in her name, that helps her case even more? Seems like it’s all about that, huh?
I’m not a lawyer, but I’ve been in a similar situation. If she’s got proof of the payments, it’ll probably go in her favor. If it goes to court, I’d say she needs to make sure all that is documented. 
@Bela
Yup, documentation is key. Any kind of bank statements or payment receipts will probably help her prove her side.
This sounds messy… I think she might need to go to small claims court if the boyfriend is really pushing for the car. It might be easier to get the title transferred through that than family court.
Montana said:
This sounds messy… I think she might need to go to small claims court if the boyfriend is really pushing for the car. It might be easier to get the title transferred through that than family court.
Thanks for the suggestion! Is there a specific way she should prepare for small claims court? Or just bring all the evidence?
@Jenna
Yup, pretty much just bring everything—payment proofs, title info, maybe even a timeline of events. It’s all about showing who paid for the car. 
If it’s really only about the title, then yeah, small claims seems easier than family court. Family court is more about custody, support, etc. Definitely document all the payments she made!
Yasmin said:
If it’s really only about the title, then yeah, small claims seems easier than family court. Family court is more about custody, support, etc. Definitely document all the payments she made!
Okay, that makes sense. Family court isn’t the right place for this kind of issue. Small claims it is! Thanks everyone for the help!
Just a heads up—if the car’s in both names, even if she paid it off, he might still try to argue for ownership. If she has the title, she’s got a stronger case, though.
Lennox said:
Just a heads up—if the car’s in both names, even if she paid it off, he might still try to argue for ownership. If she has the title, she’s got a stronger case, though.
Ugh, that’s what I was worried about. Hope it doesn’t get ugly. At least if she has the title, it might help. 