North Carolina § 59-37 - Rules for determining the existence of a partnership.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 59-37 — Rules for determining the existence of a partnership., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 59-37. Rules for determining the existence of a partnership.
In determining whether a partnership exists, these rules shall apply: Except as provided by G.S. 59-46 persons who are not partners as to each other are not partners as to third persons. Joint tenancy, tenancy in common, tenancy by the entireties, joint property, common property, or part ownership does not of itself establish a partnership, whether such co-owners do or do not share any profits made by the use of the property. The sharing of gross returns does not of itself establish a partnership, whether or not the persons sharing them have a joint or common right or interest in any property from which the returns are derived. The receipt by a person of a share of the profits of a business is prima facie evidence that he is a partner in the business, but no such inference shall be drawn if such profits were received in payment: As a debt by installments or otherwise, As wages of an employee or rent to a landlord, As an annuity to a widow or representative of a deceased partner, As interest on a loan, though the amount of payment vary with the profits of the business, As the consideration for the sale of a goodwill of a business or other property by installments or otherwise. History (1941, c. 374, s. 7.) Cross References. - For provision that a lessor and lessee are not partners, see G.S. 42-1.
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 59-37
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 59-37 cover?
Section 59-37 ("Rules for determining the existence of a partnership.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite North Carolina § 59-37?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 59-37" (North Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of North Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
How does North Carolina § 59-37 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Carolina.