What does a personal property attorney do?
A personal property attorney can represent you in a dispute over some transfer of moveable property, such as a car, a piece of furniture, or even stocks and bonds.
This differs from real estate (which is "immovable" property), and intellectual property.
How do I know if I need a personal property attorney?
You may want to consult an attorney for any of the following:
- Create a contract or lease
- Validate a title
- You bought something sold by someone without the rights
- You want to sell something that you only have partial rights to
- Personal property damage
If you're confused about any laws regarding property transfer, a personal property attorney can help explain what you need to do or guide you through the process of any paperwork or court dates you need to go through.
How much does a personal property attorney cost?
Lawyers have different methods of billing, but many personal property attorneys charge an hourly rate to represent them in court, and either an hourly or flat rate to draft or review documents. In order to avoid surprises when the bill comes, set a rate with your attorney up front.
What should I expect when working with a personal property attorney?
You should expect to settle any confusion over ownership. Negotiations or court might decide that you own the property, so you'll either be able to keep the item or be compensated for it. If it's decided that the item doesn't belong to you, you'll either need to give up the item or pay for it. A personal property attorney will know the best course of action for you so that you can resolve any disputes over ownership.
If you have legal questions or would like to consult with a personal property lawyer, reach out a Rocket Lawyer network attorney for affordable legal advice.
Please note: This page offers general legal information, but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.
