Lost Deed of Sale for Motor Vehicle: What to Do Next
Question:
The client lost the Deed of Sale for their motor vehicle and is unsure of how to go about getting a replacement. What steps should be taken to obtain a new one?
Answer:
Obtain an Affidavit of Loss:
- Draft the Document: The first step is to draft an Affidavit of Loss, stating the circ*mstances surrounding the loss of the original Deed of Sale.
- Notarize the Affidavit: The drafted Affidavit of Loss must be notarized by a licensed notary public.
File a Police Report:
Although not always required, filing a police report can help in establishing a record of the loss, which may be useful in certain circ*mstances.
Contact the Seller:
- Reach Out: Contact the person or entity from whom you purchased the motor vehicle.
- New Deed of Sale: Request a duplicate copy of the Deed of Sale if they have it, or have a new one drafted and notarized.
Register the New Document:
Once you have a new Deed of Sale or a duplicate copy, go to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to update your records and show proof that you are the legal owner of the vehicle.
Secure Additional Copies:
It's advisable to secure additional copies of your new or duplicate Deed of Sale and have them notarized. Keep these copies in a safe place and consider having digital copies as well.
Legal Advice:
For complex situations, or if the seller is uncooperative or unavailable, consult a legal advisor for specific guidance on how to proceed.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult a lawyer for case-specific guidance.
