Interference With Belongings: Conversion, Detinue, and Trespass to Chattels

Question: What is the difference between conversion, detinue, and trespass to chattels?

Answer: Understanding the distinctions between these legal actions helps protect your property rights. Conversion involves an act that denies you the use and possession of your belongings, while detinue focuses on the unjust retention of personal items. Trespass to chattels is any unauthorized interference with possessions. For strategic legal insight, contact Caruso Legal Services.

Understanding Conversion, Detinue, and Trespass to Chattels

Tortion misconduct related to personal property, meaning property that is other than real property being land, encompasses rights and responsibilities around possession and ownership.  In the context of the torts of conversion, of detinue, and of trespass to property, as civil law causes of action (reasons for suing) being the legal mechanisms for addressing wrongful possession or wrongful interference.  Recognizing the nuances of these torts is necessary to the safeguarding of proprietary interests and to ensuring rightful ownership and use of property.