Joint Ownership
Many people own property in “joint tenancy” with another person or persons, usually their spouse, a relative, or in some cases, a business associate. It can be a convenient method of ownership and usually allows for the easy transfer of property upon the death of one of the joint tenants. However, holding property in joint tenancy does not necessarily eliminate the need for court proceedings when one joint tenants dies. In addition, when the second joint tenant passes away, the property that was formerly held in joint tenancy has become the separate property of the deceased person. Because no one knows which joint tenant will pass away earlier, joint tenancy is not a substitute for a will. More Information.