Boat registration

[bret632]

ok i need major help. I need to know a way to register my boat. here is the catch i have a title who has the owner (no longer in touch) and the back of the title signed by another guy (guy passed away). the boat last was titled in 94. and no way to get it in my name because that family has moved also. any helpful hints? oh btw im in OHIO

 

[roscoe]

Re: Boat registration

What state was the title issued in?

How much is this boat worth?




The really bad thing is that someone other than the titled owner has signed it.


There may be a way to do it through the courts in Ohio, but since there are dead people involved, it will likely not be easy.

What does the Ohio DNR tell you to do?

 

[oldjeep]

Re: Boat registration

When we bought a pontoon for my dad it was purchased from a dead guy - came with a letter from the executor of his estate. Might want to see if you can at least contact the family so that they can tell you who the executor was - might even be the guy who signed the title.

 

[Mason78]

Re: Boat registration

I hate to say this, but you will likely need a signature from a probate judge. Look up your local probate court, it will be a division of county government, and speak with the judicial assistant. In small jurisdictions the bailiff may also serve as assistant.

Depending on how user friendly your courts are, you may be able to get directly in front of the judge. If you live in a large county like Franklin, you will never get near the judge and the issue will be handled by court staff.

I would give it a try on your own and then call a probate lawyer if you do not have success. If money is a problem call the nearest law school and see if they have a pro-bono program.

 

[bret632]

Re: Boat registration

the dmv says i need to hire a private investigator to track down the family of the dead guy who signed title. i bought the boat and trailer for 100.00 and replaced the floor. fml the dead guy better be greatful i am fixing HIS boat

 

[spdracr39]

Re: Boat registration

Too late now but Rule #1 is don't put any money into a boat until you have clear title in hand. Getting the title could cost more than the boat is worth if you need a lawyer to do it.

 

[Mel Taylor]

Re: Boat registration

Talk to a lawyer! There may be ways to accomplish what you need that only a lawyer would know about. An I boats forum is not the place to go for legal advice. And, unless the person you spoke with at the DMV has a law degree, his or her advice is worth exactly nothing too. I repeat, talk to a lawyer! Preferably one who has handled this type of case in the past.