What are the four "unities" required for joint tenancy to exist?

In order for a joint tenancy to exist, all four "unities" must be present: Time, Title, Interest, and Possession. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in establishing the specific nature of the joint tenancy:

1. Time: All joint tenants must acquire their interest in the property at the same time. This means that their ownership interests must originate simultaneously.

2. Title: All joint tenants must hold title to the property under the same legal document. This document typically names all joint tenants, indicating that they share ownership.

3. Interest: The interests that each joint tenant holds in the property must be equal. For instance, if there are two joint tenants, each would have a 50% interest in the property.

4. Possession: All joint tenants must have equal right to possess and use the entire property. This means that no joint tenant can exclude another from using any part of the property.

These four criteria must be satisfied for a joint tenancy to be valid. If any one of these unities is missing, the joint tenancy is not established. This concept is fundamental in real estate law and highlights the nature of ownership in joint tenancy situations.

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