Car Ownership Legalities Explained

Summary

If you are the buyer and your step-grandmother co-signed, she cannot legally sell the car without your consent. Generally, anyone can make payments on a loan, and the credit union likely didnt violate any laws. The lender typically holds the title until the car is fully paid off. Always consult with a local attorney for personalized advice.

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I’m wondering if what happens to me is legal or not
Hello ****, I'm here to help. Could you please provide more details about the situation you're facing? This will help me in giving you more accurate information.
I’m in South Carolina and this is what happend
Hello ****, I understand that you're seeking legal guidance. Could you please elaborate on the specific situation or issue you're facing in South Carolina? This will allow me to provide more accurate information.
My step grandma co signed for me to get a car back in * at our credit union. The end of * I was in a hit and run and car was put in body shop. My step grandma paid off car and picked up car from repair shop and a few months later sold car
Hello ****, it sounds like a complex situation. Can you confirm whether there were any written agreements between you and your step-grandmother regarding the car's ownership or payment?
No the credit union we both used was the lien holder my grandma was the co signer and I was the buyer
Hello ****, based on your situation:
- Since you're the buyer and your grandma co-signed, she legally can't sell the car without your consent.
- Always ensure to have written agreements to avoid such issues.
- You might want to consult with a local attorney for personalized advice.
Was it legal for the credit union to allow her to pay off car or the body shop allow her to pick up car?
Hello ****,
- Generally, anyone can make payments on a loan. The credit union likely didn't violate any laws.
- As for the body shop, it depends on their policies and local laws.
- Always consult with a local attorney for personalized advice.
Does the bank hold the title until the car is paid for ?
Hello ****,
- Yes, typically, if a car is purchased with a loan, the lender holds the title until the car is fully paid off.
- Once the car is paid off, the title is released to the buyer.
- It's always best to consult with a local attorney for personalized advice.