From what I understand Oregon is not a common law state. I have lived with my girlfriend for some 17 years (except for a 2 year hiatus in the middle). We have had joint checking accounts, file taxes separately, keep our original names, have comingled considerable sums of money, owned 2 businesses together, etc. She currently has the home we live in in her name and she purchased it originally some 7 years ago. I have done major remodeling on the home myself (an ex builder here), contributing probably $50,000 in labor if she were to hire it done. She makes the payments and the loan is in her name. I have put considerable sums into a joint checking account and also into her account. She on the other hand has paid many daily expenses. We own another piece of property (in her name) that I found, and have done the work on to increase the value substantially. Question I have can I share in any of the increases in values of the properties, similar to if we were married? Can their be a claim to assets claiming they are mutual? I do not want half, but I want something out of 17 years.

1. YOU need to hire a very good local attorney.

But normally no, since you are not married, you have no rights in anything your name is not on. Joint funds will be a real problem.

Hello GR:

I'm assuming you're splitting up. Dude, you're in deep trouble. Absent any written agreements, she owns it all. I wouldn't be worried about getting a share in the equity. I'd be worried about getting anything...

excon