Replevin is a civil action to recover a piece of personal property that a person refuses to return to you. In a replevin action, you must prove a legal right to the possession of the property, such as ownership of it, and that the defendant has wrongful possession of the property.
The Complaint: The complaint in replevin typically must include: (i) a description of the property to be replevied; (ii) its value; (iii) its location if known; and (iv) the material facts upon which the claim is based – in other words, why the filing party is entitled to seize the property that has been taken.
“Replevin” is a process whereby seized goods may be restored to their owner. In a replevin case, the Plaintiff claims a right to personal property (as opposed to real property/real estate) which has been wrongfully taken or detained by the defendant and seeks to recover that personal property.
Replevin actions involve disputes over ownership or possession of personal property, such as cars, boats, or artwork. The plaintiff must prove that they have a right to possession of the property and that the defendant wrongfully took or is wrongfully detaining the property.
A consumer who defaults on a vehicle loan usually faces the repossession of the vehicle, but sometimes a lender will use replevin as an alternative. While repossession does not involve a formal process in court, replevin consists of getting the court to order the consumer to return the vehicle to the lender.
In Florida, a typical creditor cannot take your car without first obtaining a court judgment against you. This means that if you default on an unsecured debt—such as credit cards or medical bills—the creditor must file a lawsuit, win the case, and obtain a judgment before attempting to collect.
The Replevin action is used for resolving civil disputes involving personal property valued up to $15,000.00 (excluding court costs, interest and/or attorney's fees, if applicable). This process allows for an individual to recover property which another person refuses to return.
To initiate the replevin action, creditors must attach proof of a bill of sale, property title, debt agreement, etc. to a complaint filed with the clerk of court. This filing will include a replevin summons, as well as filing the original documents with the court as well.
The process of starting a replevin action usually begins with filing a complaint. It also requires filing an affidavit in the county or district court where the property is. The affidavit: States that the plaintiff claims rightful ownership or entitlement to possession of the property.