Replevin can also refer to a writ authorizing the retaking of property by its rightful owner (i.e., the remedy sought by replevin actions). Replevin may be ordered as a final judgment, or in some jurisdictions, as a provisional remedy.
What happens once I file the replevin? Your case will be set for a hearing to go before a judge. An Order To Show Cause will be issued and served on the defendant, notifying him/her of the action and the date of the hearing. You will also be notified of the hearing date.
You will not go to jail. You have 21 days to respond to the complaint. However, the 21 days on the clock do not start to run until you are actually served with the summons by the process server.
Replevin may also be referred to as claim and delivery. Creditors use replevin actions to recover collateral when debtors default on secured loans. For example, a bank might file a replevin action against a borrower to repossess the borrower's car after he missed too many payments.
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.
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.
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.
File a motion for a writ of replevin. The motion must be accompanied by an affidavit or verified complaint that supports the allegations in your complaint. The affidavit must also state that you will post a replevin bond with the court. The amount of the bond will be set by the court.
Procedure for Obtaining, in Court, a Writ of Replevin The filing of a complaint begins a replevin action. As in other civil actions, the defendant is brought into Court by the service of the summons and the complaint. If the plaintiff establishes the cause of action, the Court must enter an Order granting possession.