Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Missouri
Selling Property that is not yours
I rented a building that was used as a restaurant and all the equipment was bought by me from the previous renter, plus I purchased euipment from elsewhere.We went out of business and the owner of the building said to leave the equipment to see if the next renter wants to buy it like I did. Just found that the building is rented using all my equipment. Called the owner he said my stuff was sold by the previous renter. We are talking about $15,000.00 in equipment i paid for. What can i do?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Selling Property that is not yours
Obviously, neither the landlord nor the prior renter could sell equipment that you owned. The problem might be in proving what you owned. But, if you can do that, then I would suggest that a demand to the current renter for the return of your equipment is in order. This might have more effect if it comes in the form of a lawyer's letter with the promise of legal action if immediate cooperation is not forthcoming. Then, if you do not get your equipment back the easy way, you can file a lawsuit and let the Court sort everything out. Please consult with an attorney in your geographical area for further advice, and good luck.