Replevin is the type of civil action used to recover possession of personal property which has been unlawfully taken and kept or lawfully taken and unlawfully kept. The plaintiff may also be entitled to monetary damages.
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.
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.
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.
To file a complaint for replevin, you must first prepare a summons (notice to appear in court) and include a complete and accurate description of the property sought. You will also need to attach proof of a bill of sale, title to the property, and photographs of the property.
If a pet is injured, an owner may bring an injury claim to court. However, the damages the owner can recover may be limited. In most cases, small claims court and representing yourself may be your best option.
A replevin case can be filed either in a Municipal Court, County Court or a Common Pleas Court. If the value of the property claimed is more than $15,000, you should file in the Common Pleas Court. Attached are the forms you need to file to begin an action for replevin.
Answer. People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can commence a civil lawsuit (such as a replevin action) to try to get the animal returned and can also contact the police, although the police do not usually get involved in pet custody disputes.
If your dog has been taken wrongfully, perhaps by a family member, or ex non-marital partner, it is possible to use the property status of your animal to obtain a judgment. Replevin is an effective civil remedy to get your dog back.