Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Unreturned Property

I'm not sure what category or state this falls under, but here is my problem.

During this past summer, I was travelling with a truck driver I had befriended. He left me stranded in Kit Carson, CO while I wasn't around, taking off with about $3000 worth of belongings. I am wondering if there is anything I can do about this.

He has been in touch a couple of times, each time claiming that he will soon send my things, but so far, nothing has happened. Am I at fault for trusting him and leaving my things with him, or can I sue to have my belongings replaced?

I have his phone number, employer name, and email address, if that helps. I'd like to avoid a major legal battle, I just want my things back with a minimum of fuss. What are my options?


Asked on 9/24/02, 10:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Martin Snitow

Re: Unreturned Property

Here is the legal mumbo jumbo: the truck driver is a bailee of your property. He has to return it on demand. You can sue to recover the property or its fair market value.

The problem is whom to sue and where. You could sue the driver in CO, where he stranded you. You might be able to sue where he picked you up. You can also sue where he lives. Can you sue his employer? That depends on the facts.

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Answered on 9/25/02, 1:13 pm


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