John J. Ciafone

Qgazette Queens, L.I., New York “ON THE LAW” with JOHN J. CIAFONE, Esq. Attorney & Counselor at Law 25-59 Steinway St./Suite 2F, Astoria (718) 278-3900 SERVING THE NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITY 24 HOURS/7 DAYS Question: Answer: I bought my girlfriend a new Honda Accord. I let her put the title in her name but paid for her insurance. We broke up four weeks ago and I asked her to surrender the vehicle to me. She refused and replaced the vehicle insurance in her name only. Should I just take the vehicle myself since I bought it? The tender of the vehicle from you to her can be interpreted as a gift since you never placed title or ownership in your name. The key question as to whether you can “take” back the vehicle is doubtful. You may attempt to sue her in civil court for the return of the vehicle if you purchased the vehicle in lieu of marriage or while you might have been engaged, otherwise, it will be deemed a gift and you will lose all rights to said vehicle. Be careful, not to take the vehicle from her since she can file a complaint of grand larceny against you which is a felony, even though you bought the vehicle. If you have any questions; please Call: John J. Ciafone, Esq. <pagedata>5:0.810882926:0.968497455:0.973045647:0.499684334</pagedata>