Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia
I have lived with a man for over 5 years, we separated and moved separate ways, He brought the cops to move his stuff, but now states he needs to come back for more things he left. I was told since he didn't take it when he came the first time, i didn't have to let him have it. Also he owes numerous bills at the home, that I had to pay to continue to live there, I feel until he clears the financial up I should not have to return the items.
1 Answer from Attorneys
If this man still remains the rightful owner of these items
of personal property left at your home, then you must
return them to him if and when he returns to collect them.
Nor are you legally permitted to withhold the return of these
items until "he clears the financial up" which you could deal with
by filing a case against him in small claims court.
If this fellow were now to file against you in the local general district court what's called a warrant in detinue for the return of his personal property, the judge hearing the matter would very likely order you to return his property
to him.