Reston, VA asked in Estate Planning for Virginia

Q: What happens if someone refuses to give your your belongings after you ask them to do so?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James H. Wilson Jr.
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James H. Wilson Jr.
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Glen Allen, VA
  • Licensed in Virginia

A: In Virginia, a personal property owner can file a Warrant in Detinue in General District Court for the return of personal property or an award of its fair market value. The Warrant in Detinue is a fill-in-the-blanks form. In Circuit Court, a Complaint for Detinue would have to be drafted by the plaintiff or his or her attorney. The General District Court can hear cases seeking a judgment of up to $25,000, with exclusive jurisdiction of those matters involving claims of up to $4,500. If a matter involves more than $4,500, it may also be filed in the Circuit Court instead of the General District Court.

Ellen S Deutsch Taylor agrees with this answer

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