San Bernardino Boundary Disputes Litigation Attorney
Boundary disputes in San Bernardino can quickly turn from a minor disagreement over a few feet of space into a full-blown legal dispute. Whether it’s a fence installed over a property line or a driveway encroaching on someone else’s space, these disputes can turn into claims of ownership, demands for removal, and litigation. When this happens, talking to a Riverside boundary disputes litigation lawyer is your next step.
At Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP, we have helped property owners throughout this region navigate complex boundary dispute cases. Attorney James Knox advocates for his clients, putting their needs first and finding solutions that work for them.
Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP can be found at 1447 Ford Street, Suite 201, in Redlands. We’re conveniently located right off of I-10, just off of Reservoir Road. Wherever you are coming from in the San Bernardino or Riverside area, we’re easy to find. Call us at 909-894-0812 to schedule a time to discuss your boundary dispute now.
Google Review:
“James Knox is an outstanding lawyer. He has a great legal mind and really cares about his clients on a personal level. He is a good person and very smart. I would definitely, choose Mr. Knox to represent me in a legal matter again. Lastly, I would highly recommend him to my friends, family members and public at large.”
Verified Google Review from Javier R.
What is a Property Boundary Dispute?
Boundary disputes arise when neighboring property owners disagree on where the boundary between their property lies or about either party’s right to use a specific part of the property. These conflicts tend to involve:
- Conflicting surveys (or one party working off of memory and one working off of a survey)
- Ambiguous or outdated descriptions in deeds
- Fences or structures built on or across boundaries
- Long-term use of a neighbor’s land
- Informal agreements made by prior owners that new owners do not want to continue
It’s important to note that in these cases, what appears to be an obvious boundary is not necessarily the property line. For example, just because a neighbor has had a fence in place for years, that doesn’t mean that it reflects the property line. California courts rely on deeds, surveys, and legal standards—not assumptions or informal agreements.
Common Types of Boundary Disputes in California
Boundary conflicts in Riverside and San Bernardino arise in several different ways. Disputes we commonly see include:
- Fences and structural encroachments: We often see issues when a neighbor builds a fence, retaining wall, shed, or garage that sits on the other party’s property or crosses over the boundary line. Even if it’s just a small amount of property being used, that can significantly affect the encroached-upon property’s value.
- Survey disagreements: Property owners may obtain surveys that identify different boundary lines, with each agreeing with the one that benefits them. Figuring out which survey actually outlines the property boundary involves an in-depth analysis of historical records and legal descriptions.
- Adverse possession claims: Neighbors may try to secure ownership of part of your property through adverse possession. In California, this requires open and notorious usage, continuous usage for at least five years, usage without permission, and accompanied by payment of property taxes on the disputed portion. These cases are complex and require extensive legal analysis.
- Prescriptive easements: Prescriptive easements do not transfer ownership, but they can give neighbors a way to continue using part of your property if they’ve used it openly and continuously for at least five years.
- Tree and vegetation encroachments: Tree roots or vegetation may cross property lines and cause damage to neighboring property. California law provides guidance on potential liability and trimming rights.
Resolving Boundary Disputes
Not every dispute ends in trial, but it’s important to be prepared for litigation from the very beginning. We start by reviewing the chain of title, legal descriptions, and recorded easements or agreements to determine your legal position and potential strategies. We may also bring in a licensed land surveyor to clarify discrepancies and boundaries.
At this point, many disputes can be resolved via negotiation and formal boundary line agreements that are legally documented to prevent future issues. If informal negotiation is unsuccessful, mediation may be the next step. Structured negotiations can preserve neighborly relationships while providing mutually beneficial solutions. When all else fails, litigation is your only option. Potential solutions include quiet title actions, declaratory relief, injunctive relief, and ejectment.
“In boundary disputes, assumptions are costly. Courts rely on surveys, deeds, and legal standards—not fences or informal agreements. It’s critical to build your case on solid documentation from the beginning.” — Attorney James Knox
Why You Need a Boundary Disputes Litigation Attorney
When you choose Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP, you can feel confident knowing that we will analyze your case from every angle to find the best approach. We can analyze your deed and title history, coordinate with survey experts, develop a strategy for negotiation and litigation, pursue injunctive relief if appropriate, and protect your ownership rights in court.
Contact Our Team Today
Boundary disputes can permanently alter your property lines and the value of your property. The sooner you turn to our team to discuss your concerns, the earlier we can begin preparing for your case. Fill out a contact form or call us at 909-894-0812 to get started.
