What to do if an ex-boyfriend wants the car he gave back, or a sum of money?

Questioner

My ex boyfriend bought me a car at the beginning of our relationship, I had not asked for it but he thought I had to be mobile and suddenly showed up at my door with the car. It is in my name and I pay all the costs. Now I received an email from him in which he demands that I return the car or pay him a sum of money if I want to keep the car. The email also contained a CC message to the bailiff, I see this as a threat. What are my rights in this and how should I act if, for example, the bailiff were to show up at my door. We did not put anything on paper and I did not sign anything regarding it being a loan or anything. We were not married or living together.

Lawyer

You received this car in good faith at the time. Now that the car is registered in your name, you are 'on paper' the owner of the vehicle. You pay the monthly costs of the vehicle and not your ex. Your ex will first have to prove that he is the owner of the vehicle and that will be difficult given your explanation. A bailiff will first approach you in writing and not just suddenly show up at your door. However, before you receive a letter from the bailiff, your ex will first have to substantiate his claim on you with evidence. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Kind regards, Mr. J. Groenewegen