Joint Tenancy vs Tenancy in Common: When Registration Overrides Intention

The distinction between joint tenancy and tenancy in common has profound implications for property succession in Uganda. Recent decisions of the High Court Family Division have reinforced the principle that the form of ownership appearing on a land title certificate determines the legal consequences upon a co-owner’s death, irrespective of contributions to the purchase price, business arrangements, or family relationships.
This legal alert examines the critical differences between these two forms of co-ownership and their impact on estate planning, business partnerships, and family wealth preservation. Property
owners, investors, and legal practitioners must understand these distinctions to avoid unintended disinheritance and costly succession disputes.