§ 1147 Gift Validity Requirements

Civil Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says a gift only works if the giver actually gives the item to the receiver, not just promises it.

Key Takeaways

•A gift must be handed over or symbolically delivered.
•Just saying you’ll give something isn’t enough.
•If the item can be delivered, the receiver must actually get it.

Example

Your friend says they will give you their bike tomorrow, but they never hand it over.

Because they didn't actually give you the bike or make a symbolic hand‑over, the gift isn’t legally valid.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 1147 Gift Validity Requirements

A verbal gift is not valid, unless the means of obtaining possession and control of the thing are given, nor, if it is capable of delivery, unless there is an actual or symbolical delivery of the thing to the donee. (Enacted 1872.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

verbal gift possession and control actual or symbolical delivery donee

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Civil Code. Section 1147.

Key Takeaways

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Key Terms

Related Statutes

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References