What Is A Quiet Title Action?

In essence, a quiet title action is a lawsuit filed in a court specializing in real estate matters. The purpose of the lawsuit is to “quiet” other claims—asserting the rights of the filer and removing doubts concerning the ownership of the property. The action is crucial in situations where the property’s ownership history is complex, fragmented, or unclear.

When Do You Need A Quiet Title Action?

The need for a quiet title action generally arises when there are issues or ambiguities in the property’s title history. Such issues may include disputes arising from inheritance problems, claims by lien holders, tax sales, or inconsistencies in the property’s deed. In Georgia, a quiet title action is particularly useful in rectifying title issues due to tax deeds sales and resolving boundary line disputes.

How Does A Quiet Title Action Work In Georgia?

Georgia’s quiet title law allows individuals to clear a property’s title by filing an action in the Superior Court of the county where the property is located. Once the action is filed, the court examines the title’s history and claims. It then determines who holds the rightful ownership. The filing party (the plaintiff) must provide all the information concerning the property, including a full legal description and the potential claimants to the property’s title. The court then orders a special master (a court-appointed neutral third party) to investigate and report on these claims. Based on the special master’s report and their discretion, the court delivers its judgment.

How Long Does A Quiet Title Action Take?

The duration of a quiet title action in Georgia can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the title and the number of claimants. A straightforward quiet title action can be completed within two to three months, but a more complex situation involving multiple parties or disputes may take a year or more.

Can A Quiet Title Action Remove Liens?

While a quiet title action can help clear the title from other claims, it’s important to understand that it does not automatically remove liens against the property. Certain liens, such as tax liens or mortgages, may still need to be addressed separately.

Do I need an attorney for a quiet title action in Georgia?

Yes, given the complex nature of real estate laws and the importance of the quiet title action process, it’s advisable to seek the help of an experienced real estate attorney.

What is a title search, and why is it important?

A title search is a comprehensive examination of public records to determine the legal ownership of a property, and whether there are any claims or liens on it. It’s a crucial step before initiating a quiet title action.

Can adverse possession apply in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia law recognizes adverse possession where a person who is not the legal owner of a property occupies it continuously for a certain period and meets other legal requirements. However, successfully claiming ownership through adverse possession is quite rare and complex.

Can a quiet title action resolve easement disputes?

Yes, a quiet title action can help resolve disputes related to easements, right of way, or other property encroachments.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

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Thrift McLemore was recommended to me by a friend, and they were a fantastic recommendation! They made working through my problem very straightforward and understandable. They are knowledgeable, honest, and efficient. I would work with them without hesitation if the need ever arose. You never hope to have a problem that requires an attorney, but when you do, you want a team you can trust. Thanks!

Shane |
(5-star review)

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These guys have it together. And if feels like you've been taken care of by family.

Leigh-Ann |
(5-star review)

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If you are looking for someone who acts like they value your business, communicates honestly and often, can develop an effective case strategy, can go toe to toe with the largest firms, has superior negotiation skills, then give them a try. I’m glad I did.

Anonymous |
(5-star review)

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Outstanding! I've used these lawyers twice now and received exceptional service both times. Friendly professional service at fair rates.

Amanda |
(5-star review)

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My wife and I appreciated their thorough attention to detail and compassionate and knowledgeable approach to the many facets of estate planning. Estate planning can be emotionally difficult, but their team made the process a pleasure and the results have provided us long-term peace of mind.

Jeff |
(5-star review)

Thrift McLemore

4.9

Based on 309 reviews

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bryan R

23:37 20 Nov 23

The consultation was extremely weird. at first, chris said this is something in their wheelhouse, and then as I talked, and I explained I wanted to sublease my business there was a 180° turn. They felt like it was nefarious ( without any explanation, they just said no). They didn’t want to touch it the 10 days scared dead line scared him even though I said, it’s not a problem to push the deadline back. It seem like there were more interest in protecting themselves than protecting their potential client.. I’m not sure what happened.

Imani Ellis

22:27 19 Nov 23

Stephanie Eban and her team are absolutely incredible. They made the entire Estate planning process a breeze and I'm so thankful for this thoughtful and detailed experience.

Nancy Cheney

18:13 10 Nov 23

Stephanie was so easy and helpful to work with on our estate plan. She listens and is creative to best execute upon your wishes/goals. I also appreciated she was transparent with fees/cost and does not bill by the minute for the process and going forward. Highly recommend!

Renee Dries

04:37 10 Nov 23

Mariam Rahman

15:20 06 Nov 23

Recently we had the opportunity to work with Thrift Mclemore. We were impressed by their work ethics and professionalism. A special shout out to Stephanie Eban for her commitment and competence. Overall it was a great experience.

John Donovan

20:46 01 Nov 23

Stephanie Eban is a skilled and knowledgeable estate planning lawyer... I learned a lot! She knew what my plan needed to be, basically during the first interview.Stephanie and her team put together all the documents quickly and wisely.The cost was fair.I'm very impressed.

Tracy Markowski

18:58 31 Oct 23

We had a wonderful experience with Thrift McLemore. They were incredibly kind, thorough, and communicative with our living trust needs

Kendra Mcburnie

15:55 31 Oct 23

Craig was extremely professional and helpful to me on two different occasions. He provided me a referral when I had concerns out of his area of expertise and assured me that I can reach out for additional assistance or if his referral is unable to assist . He was also very prompt in returning my calls during my initial reach out and after . His review is particularly important because I am a member of CLC which means I didn’t have to pay for his time or advice and he treated me NO DIFFERENTLY. Thank you Craig , I sincerely appreciate you !

Kenya Williamson

15:12 24 Oct 23

I have worked with Thrift McLemore for a couple years and the staff is exceptional. Craig Thrift communicates promptly and honestly. He offers effective solutions and realistic expectations. This firm has helped me resolve property acquisitions and disputes. The Thrift McLemore team is highly recommended!’n

Nell Burke

20:52 23 Oct 23

I owe much thanks to Thrift McLemore.After having trouble collecting on a personal loan - I did not know how to proceed.From the start, Ryan McLemore took my case on personally. After a year trying unsuccessfully to collect by myself - Ryan took the reins and I received payment by the other party in just a few months.He had the experience, advice and expertise to keep my case constantly moving, and did so very efficiently.I highly recommend to anyone debating to take legal action - don't wait ask to ask their opinion! I'm so glad I did.

Jazmine Robinson

22:15 18 Oct 23

With a difficult decision to seek legal representation to help bring justice to our seller for non-disclosure in Ga it was hard to find someone willing to take our case! While it’s been a long journey Eric and his team have been nothing short of professional and carried out things as my husband and I communicated and he committed. We not only won the Victory but settled out of court. We now serve as a testament of such cases receiving justice as the purchasing party. Which is almost unheard of!If you have had or are having an issue with non disclosure during the purchase of your hone please reach out and retain Him!10/10 We HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!

Pretty Pose

20:14 16 Oct 23

The attorneys at Thrift McLemore are the best in their class and are extremely knowledgeable. What makes them even more rare is that they truly care for and listen to prospective clients. They will fairly assess a case and will be honest about whether there is a plausible claim.

Stephanie Meacham

16:26 13 Oct 23

Awesome attorney! Easy to talk with. Love him!!!

Mandy Carneglia

14:08 09 Oct 23

I spoke with Attorney Julian Pierce at Thrift McLemore and can not recommend him enough! He was knowledgable and patient, and even called me after hours to make sure he could talk to me same day. Highly recommend Julian!

Sdot 745i

14:19 01 Oct 23

I haven’t dealt with many lawyers but their care and they’re staying on top of things goes along way nowadays they can’t help me with my matter but if I have another one, I will definitely be calling them. Thank you.

clarence alexander

17:28 29 Sep 23

Mr. Craig Thrift, is extremely knowledgeable about the law, and had the foresight to give me legal options I had not considered. He is also very personable and easy to talk to. If you or someone you know is in need of civil legal assistance, Thrift-McLemore is the firm you should hire.

Christopher Ross

09:31 15 Sep 23

My wife and I had an exceptional estate planning experience from the initial meeting over a great meal continuing through to the final signing yesterday. The team has been very professional, and responsive but also accommodating to our changing work schedules. More importantly, my wife really appreciated how organized the process was and that we were left feeling confident that we have a great plan! Thank you Stephanie, Tara and Tessa!

Maria Eaves

15:11 09 Sep 23

Thrift McLemore team helped with dispute with GA property manager. Worked with Mark Buckland. He was responsive and got the job done. Tessa was also great to work with - very pleasant and helpful. Would definitely choose Thrift McLemore again.

waddles

17:42 08 Sep 23

Erich was really great in guiding us through the difficult process! He took the time to explain the different routes we could take and gave his best recommendation considering all the options.We were able to avoid arbitration (saving thousands of dollars, headaches, and hours) and would recommend him to anyone dealing with new residential construction issues!

Sam

16:27 22 Aug 23

Thrift McLemore consists of the best attorneys I have ever worked with. From our first meeting, Stephanie and Julian explained everything to my husband and me in terms we could easily understand and was always very responsive when we had questions outside of our meetings. We worked with them on our estate planning needs. In the process, they established a trust on our behalf and provided us with excellent asset protection by transferring our homes to LLCs. I also worked with Todd to establish a new consulting business. If anyone is looking for knowledgeable attorneys then you won't have any issue finding them at Thrift McLemore. I highly recommend them and will work with this law office again. Thanks, TM!

Billy

23:43 27 Jul 23

Stephanie and team were an absolute pleasure to work with. They made the process extremely easy and answered all the questions my wife and I had regarding setting up a will and trust.They followed up on a regular basis, walked us a through a complicated process and made it feel simple. Stephanie put our minds at ease with our family’s future. Highly recommend!

Bill Nichols

15:25 26 Jul 23

Stephanie Eban was the attorney who helped us with our estate planning and she and her team (Tara and Tessa) were friendly, professional, thorough and always on time. It was a real pleasure working with them. Thanks!

Jacqueline McDuffie

03:42 19 Jul 23

My experience with the Thrift McLemore team has been awesome. Estate Planning and LLC creation has been on my list for several years to accomplish and once I spoke with Stephanie and Julian and they explained the process, I signed up that same day. I felt at ease and comfortable and trusted they were looking out for my best interest so I decided to move forward with them doing all the work along with the great team Tessa and others. The process didn't take as long as I originally thought and now my loved ones are set with no questions on my wishes. Great experience and I am so happy I can check this off my list.

Sara Ellis

15:28 07 Jul 23

I recently had the pleasure of working with Craig Thrift at Thrift McLemore for a complex legal matter, and I cannot express enough how impressed I am with their services. From start to finish, he demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication that exceeded all my expectations. The fees were transparent with no surprises and he even provided some of his time free of charge. I truly could not recommend a more professional or honest law office than Thrift McLemore.

Portia Holt

00:21 30 Jun 23

I dislike how they lead you on and ask for confidential documents and only for them to tell you they can’t help again. Understandable that every case is not going to be their expertise but after two phone calls, there needs to be honesty and not deceiving. The sad part is they can’t even pick up the phone and explain why they would ask someone to send in their documents and then switch their response. How they handled that ordeal via email was very tasteless. The phone call or “consultation” needs to be truthful and not misleading.

Andre Monroe

13:03 16 Jun 23

Erich Schultheiss, Esq. was a tremendous asset, stepping in and mediating a tricky legal matter on my behalf which likely saved me thousands of dollars and prevented significant disruption at my home. He was knowledgeable and transparent about the law, specifically as it pertains to the state of Georgia, my legal options, and a firm recommendation on how to proceed towards amicable resolution which was achieved for all parties involved. I'd definitely partner with Erich and Thrift McLemore again. Thanks team!

Doug Gordon

14:19 16 May 23

I hired Thrift McLemore to handle my estate planning needs. I am greatly impressed with the Thrift McLemore team as they demonstrated professionalism, patience, and follow-through. I cannot recommend Stephanie Eban enough. She and her staff were very organized and provided a flawless experience. I never had to call and request updates or status due to their proactive approach. She took time to answer any questions I had and ensured I understood the entire process.

Kristen Wickstrom

23:53 27 Apr 23

My husband I received an invite to a dinner all about Estate Planning & Wills from Thrift McElmore a few months ago, and we’re so glad we did! Working with Stephanie and her team was so easy, considering the decisions you make when planning your estate are often not. We can’t recommend them highly enough. Everyone was so kind, punctual, flexible when we needed to reschedule meetings, and explained things to us without making us feel dumb. A truly wonderful experience - 10/10!

Lynn C

19:07 12 Apr 23

Great team at Thrift McLemore Law Firm. They were professional from start to end. Job Well Done to Patricia Roy! I enjoyed working with her. She is an excellent attorney. Very knowledgeable and trustworthy. She helped me with a very difficult case. Thank you is not enough to express our gratitude. We will be returning for service if needed.

Sean Corrigan

14:54 03 Apr 23

I am absolutely beyond satisfied with the team at Thrift McLemore. They were able to quickly recover funds that my loan servicing provider refused to distribute for over a year. They promptly collected all the pertinent information regarding my claim immediately after I contacted them and went directly to work to recover the funds. Craig and Michael kept me informed of their progress throughout the entire process. I had fought with the servicing company and consulted several other attorneys for over a year without making any progress. Within 6 weeks the team at Thrift McLemore resolved any and all legal requirements associated with the broken title chain and had the servicing company release my funds. I am looking forward to working with them again on future projects.Sean C.

Lisa T

15:35 15 Mar 23

I hired Thrift McLemore to handle a very sticky situation with a contractor. No one likes to have to hire a lawyer - and it was also during an extremely stressful life situation. After a rocky start, I am greatly impressed with the team with professionalism, patience, and follow-through. After discussing our rocky start, concerns were immediately course corrected by Ryan and his team.I cannot recommend Ryan McLemore enough. I never had to worry about chasing him for status on my case: the updates were always on time and thorough. He took the time to explain the nuanced details, the if / when / then scenarios, planned a strategic approach, and executed. I was able to leave my case in his capable hands with utmost confidence.Tessa's patience and understanding working with me on the invoicing and my concerns has been outstanding.I highly recommend Ryan and the team and if I unfortunately ran into this situation again, I would re-hire them in a heartbeat.

Gwen Daniel

02:39 17 Feb 23

If you're looking for a Trust Attorney, then you have found the best. The entire firm of people are exceptional. Stephanie Eban and her staff made us feel at home. They explained every thing to our satisfaction and then some. The practice cares about their clients. Go see for yourselves. Don't just take my word!

Andi Kaufman

19:45 09 Dec 22

Stephanie Eban and her team were wonderful to work with in guiding me through the estate planning process. Stephanie was knowledgeable, patient and professional. Having never done this before, she clearly and patiently answered (lots of!) questions I had and gave great input and advice when asked. I'd highly recommend her and her team without reservation.

Karen Cobb

18:51 24 Oct 22

Patricia was awesome! She was extremely knowledgeable and even though it was my mistake that put me in the situation that I was in, Patricia never made me feel as if I was to blame, but instead, she provided me with all of my options to get the issue resolved. She was super friendly and personable and always provided a prompt response. Hopefully my first time needing a lawyer will be my last but f not, I will definitely be calling Thrift McLemore again.

Karen-Brandee Williams

02:15 28 Sep 22

We appreciate attorneys who really care about their clients by listening, showing compassion, seeking facts, going the extra mile to help, guide, and even respectfully share their professional opinions! These are attributes we've experienced with Attorney Craig Thrift (of Thrift McLemore Law firm) and Don and I share recommendations to others. Give him a call!Thanks for everything Attorney Craig! KB Williams

Keith Howard

21:43 14 Sep 22

I was deeply satisfied with the estate planning services offered by Stephanie Eban and her team at the law offices of Thrift McLemore. They made what could easily be an uncomfortable and complicated process easy, streamlined and understandable. There were no surprises during the process and I felt assured that they really had my best interests at hand. My questions were answered in a very comprehensive and understandable manner and I was impressed with the final product. I will certainly refer Stephanie to any of my friends who need estate planning services in the future.

S Wu

17:17 14 Aug 22

Stephanie and her assistant Tessa are very pleasant to work with. Stephanie is very knowledgeable and professional in helping me to set up my living trust. She and Tessa are both very helpful and patient in answering my questions. I am very pleased with the entire process and the final product! I definitely and highly recommend Stephanie to everyone who wants to setup a trust.

Amy Holt

20:15 17 Jun 22

Estate planning is always in the back of our minds but we seem to always put it off because something else comes up. We knew we had to get ours done so I did a bit of research and interviewed a few firms. I have to say that when we made our decision we made the best one ever! Stephanie was so easy to work with made everything so understandable at our level not 5000 feet above us. She was informative had our best interest at heart and only offered a suggestion if we both looked a bit confused. She did not pressure or lead us wrong on any of our decisions and now the guess work is done. We officially have set up our Estate! Thank you, Stephanie and staff for walking us through this process and putting our minds at ease and our family’s. So appreciative!

Jim Kinney

03:57 16 Jun 22

Both Craig and Todd were friendly and easy to work. Their work is professional and handled quickly.I would recommend both men if asked for a referral.James KinneyCapt, USN (ret)

Cliford rojas

20:37 15 Jun 22

I got to work with Craig and Michael and they did a superb job with handling my case. At all times Michael kept good communication and informed me with realistic expectations on the outcome of my case. A huge wealth of knowledge and they work with my budget.

Audrey Lefont

14:45 23 May 22

Craig Thrift is a very knowledgeable business attorney and is kind to work with. I retained Craig to work on a business legal matter involving a breach of contract and an insurance company. He answered all of my questions in a timely manner and got everything done quickly to solve my business legal issue. I highly recommend Craig Thrift and Thrift McLemore for small business owners.

Charles Pierre PhD, MSc in Analytics

20:51 12 May 22

Stephanie is an absolute doll. It was a pleasurable experience working with her. I was amazed at the amount of excellent work she and Tessa produced. I enjoyed working with her immensely.Charles Pierre

Layne Stabler

18:04 04 May 22

My husband and I needed to update our will now that our kids are grown. We went to one of Stephanie Eban’s ‘dinner and learn’ sessions about setting up a trust to avoid probate. Stephanie and her team are very knowledgeable and organized, making this complicated process a breeze. I would highly recommend them.

Zack Goldstein

23:31 03 May 22

Stephanie Eban was great to work with! A true professional! Stephanie made us feel comfortable throughout our entire estate planning process, and expertly answered all of our many questions. Thank you to the team at Thrift McLemore for all of your help and guidance.

Libby Klindt

13:32 22 Apr 22

This was our first time going through the estate planning process, and Stephanie was not only incredibly knowledgable, but very patient. She and her team made the process straightforward and easy. I would highly recommend Stephanie and the Thrift McLemore team for estate planning.

April Charles

05:00 07 Apr 22

It was such a pleasure to work with Mrs. Tessa, as a notary for a real estate closing she was handling. She is very professional and very welcoming. I would work with her again anytime. Thank you Mrs. Tessa for being absolutely amazing.

Courtney Lundeen Harris

18:26 29 Mar 22

Stephanie made this entire process so easy. I would highly recommend using her!

Jennifer D

00:39 22 Mar 22

I left an inquiry and did not think anyone would contacted me. Mr. Craig Thrift and his staff were awesome and got my case moving swiftly… while other law firms did not even bother to get in touch with me.Ms. Patricia Roy was FANTASTIC and easy to work with. Ms Roy was very thorough, on time, and answered all my questions. Ms Roy was very professional, knowledgeable, an experienced and GREAT Real Estate Litigation attorney. Ms Roy understands what I’ve been through, that’s a plus in my book. Ms Roy was able to help me break the contract… roofing issue on new home construction. Ms Roy has saved me $$$$$ from future money pits if I had gone through with the closing.I would highly recommend Thrift McLemore law firm and Ms Patricia Roy!! Thanks!! Jennifer D

asa johnson

17:45 18 Mar 22

This company is amazing. Attorney thrift responded to my call swiftly and immediately sent me all his contact info. During my consultation he was honest, clear, and very helpful. I was certainly continue using this firm! Thank you!

David Ralph

22:19 17 Feb 22

After consulting with 4 different attorneys on an HOA dispute I was about to give up until I had my consultation with Craig. I truly felt he had my best interest in mind when giving me advice and sincerely cared. He got back with me on my concerns in a timely and professional manner. Highly recommend!

MITRUK ATL

18:21 17 Feb 22

We found ATTORNEYS THRIFT McLemore on a website called LEGAL MATCH and we are glad we did within minutes of requesting an attorney to match within a few minutes we started to receive acceptance of our case with certified attorneys. This was one of the most productive and pleasant dialogues that I have ever had with any attorney over the phone. Craig thrift was extremely knowledgeable about the TRUCKING INDUSTRY and was quickly able to assist in how we should proceed with our case. He was only interested in making sure that we were very happy with working with him and his firm and indeed we are.

mary fitzgerald

18:02 17 Feb 22

Great firm. Knowledgeable, efficient and just terrific all around. You cannot go wrong using theirservices.

Wendy Johnson

19:48 07 Feb 22

GREAT staff!! My first interaction was with Tessa and I can't say enough about her personality, generosity and kindness. She walked me through this whole process. Words can't express my gratitude. My Attorney, Matthew Collins also was Great! He was outstanding in Court and very knowledgeable from the time he took my case to the time he decided how to proceed with the argument. Without me knowing the outcome and before the Judge ruled I told Mr. Collins that he did a great job, win or lose I could not have asked for better. Evidently, the Judge thought so as well. We WON our case. Thank You, Thank You, to the wonderful staff at Thrift McLemore. May God Bless you and the work you do for others.

Pascha Nixon

10:33 31 Jan 22

Wow, where do I start? When I first spoke to Mr. Thrift I was extremely frustrated and stressed. I had already spoken to several attorneys before speaking with Mr. Thrift and was concerned that no one was taking my case seriously when it was severely impacting my business and my peace of mind.Mr. Thrift put my mind at ease immediately and was prepared to go the extra mile to assist me and examine certain aspects of the case right away that no other attorney had offered to investigate. I was immediately captivated and became a client.I am in awe of Mr. Thrift and his team.The work Mr. Thrift and his team accomplished was truly outstanding. They did an excellent job and I believe that my case included some level of creative and critical thinking that only an exceptional attorney would be able to execute.My case resulted in a successful Judgment against the other party, and I will now be able to receive compensation for all the trouble I went through.Thanks to Mr. Thrift, my stressful situation was turned into a victory.It does not get better than that!Craig Thrift is the best attorney in Georgia.If you are reading this and need an attorney hire him now don’t waste time!!!!

ANTHONY THOMPSON

17:06 24 Jan 22

I WAS TRULY HOPING FOR A BETTER OUTCOME IN MY FAVOR, BUT NO BLAME TO THRIFT MC LEMORE. ATTORNEY CRAIG THRIFT WAS VERY RESPONSIVE, TO ALL MY CONCERNS, AND HE HELPED ME AS MUCH AS HE COULD, EVEN NOT BILLING FOR CERTAIN PHONE CALLS.I THANK THIS LAW FIRM AND HOPEFULLY CAN WORK TOGETHER AGAIN IN THE FUTURE.

Petrina B

17:07 15 Jan 22

Craig Thrift and his team were excellent to work with. I used them to advise on a HOA matter. They were very professional and responsive (which can be challenging with some attorneys). I would definitely recommend them, as well as use them again if any issues should arise in the future.

brett

00:03 09 Dec 21

I am very impressed with the service I received from Stephanie Eban and her staff, especially Tessa. I am extremely pleased with the professional and knowledgeable information provided. I was provided with clear answers to all my questions and relieved of any concerns. The entire process was so easy to follow and complete from my first visit to signing the documents. Thank you so much to Stephanie and her support staff!

Yvette Hill

11:56 20 Nov 21

Stephanie and her team were so professional and pleasant to work with. She talked us through every part of the process and answer all of our questions. We also enjoyed getting to know a little bit about her. It made the process feel as though we were working with a friend. Thank you for working with us and we wish you the best with the new baby.

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