Opinion ID: 1377150
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Heading: AnalysisQuestion Two

Text: Having determined that the deed of trust was improperly acknowledged, we must next determine whether the defective acknowledgment renders the deed of trust void or voidable by a judicial lien creditor or a bona fide purchaser. With respect to the transfer of Edward James Crim, Sr.'s interest in the property, we conclude that the deed of trust is null and void as to subsequent creditors or bona fide purchasers without notice under Tenn.Code Ann. § 66-26-103. However, the certificate of acknowledgment indicates that Jayne Crim personally appeared before the notary public and acknowledged her signature on the deed of trust. Thus, the certificate of acknowledgment indicates compliance with Tenn.Code Ann. § 66-22-101 with respect to Jayne Crim's signature entered in her individual capacity. In addition, the certificate of acknowledgment used was the appropriate form prescribed by Tenn.Code Ann. § 66-22-107(b) for persons signing on their own behalf. Therefore, the deed of trust is legally registered and is valid as to subsequent creditors and bona fide purchasers, insofar as Jayne Crim's interest in the property is concerned. However, Jayne Crim and Edward J. Crim, Sr., owned the real property in question as tenants by the entirety. With respect to property held in tenancy by the entirety, one spouse, acting alone, can only transfer or encumber his or her right of survivorship. Robinson v. Trousdale County, 516 S.W.2d 626, 632 (Tenn.1974); Clark v. Clark, 620 S.W.2d 536, 538 (Tenn.Ct.App.1981), perm. app. denied (Tenn. Aug. 31, 1981). Therefore, the only interest encumbered by the deed of trust in this case is the survivorship interest of Jayne Crim. Thus, EMC has an interest in Jayne Crim's right of survivorship which is not voidable by a judicial lien creditor or bona fide purchaser without notice.