Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New York
Right to property
In August of 2003, my ex-boyfriend's father (boyfriend at the time) bought furniture for our apartment. In May of 2004 we broke up and the ex boyfriend moved to New Jersey, leaving the furniture with me in the apartment. I have since then moved and the furniture moved with me, at that point in time my ex boyfriend told me to use it as I needed it, implying no issue with me moving it with me. Now this ex boyfriend has contacted me stating that he wants the furniture back. Do I have any kinds of rights to this furniture?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Right to property
While abandoned property cannot be reclaimed, on the other hand, compromise is always the best way to reconcile legitimate interests.
Perhaps if you explain that you have adopted the furniture as your own after his abandonment and that you would be happy to give him one (1) favorite piece, it might help soften the issue without unduly harming you. .
Re: Right to property
You can probably claim the furniture as yours, the question becomes if it's worth the trouble.
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