Palo Alto, CA asked in Animal / Dog Law for California

Q: My 25 yr old Daughter took my cats when she moved out - Against my wishes

I obtained two cats over 15 years ago, and have cared for them since. My daughter has been living rent free in my home for six years since she reached her majority, and has a strong emotional attachment to them

Two days ago she snuck out of the house with all of her belongings and my cats. We had discussed this over the prior couple of weeks, and I made it clear that I wanted to keep the cats with the remainder of the family. When asked why she went against my wishes, she stated that she would take better care of them (a debatable point). She also changed the name on their micro chips from my name to hers.

Are more than 15 years of vet bills enough to prove ownership so that I can sue her in small claims court for petty theft? Or do I have any other recourse

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1 Lawyer Answer
Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
Answered
  • Newport Beach, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Sue her in Small claims for "Conversion" of your personal property, value the cats at about $2500.00, you can also ask for an injunction for her to return the cats.

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