Detinue

Detinue is a legal process used to recover personal property that someone else is holding without permission. If you wrongfully retain your neighbor’s borrowed bicycle or a tool they lent you, you can file a detinue claim. This process asks the court to order the person holding the item to return it to you. It’s distinct from theft because it involves the wrongful possession after lawful transfer, not necessarily illegal taking. Overall, detinue helps you assert your right to recover property that’s been wrongfully kept or withheld.