Conversion is a legal term that refers to the unauthorised assumption, use, or control over another person’s property, denying the owner’s rights to the property. It involves intentionally interfering with the owner’s right to possess and use the property, regardless of whether the action was intentional or unintentional. Conversion can occur through various means, such as theft, destruction, or unauthorised sale of the property. To establish a claim of conversion, the plaintiff must demonstrate ownership or possessory interest in the property, the defendant’s wrongful act of interference, and damages resulting from the interference. Compensation for damages in conversion cases typically includes the value of the property or the cost of restoring the property to its original condition.
n. a civil wrong (tort) in which one converts another’s property to his/her own use, which is a fancy way of saying “steals.” Conversion includes treating another’s goods as one’s own, holding onto such property which accidentally comes into the convertor’s (taker’s) hands, or purposely giving the impression the assets belong to him/her. This gives the true owner the right to sue for his/her own property or the value and loss of use of it, as well as going to law enforcement authorities since conversion usually includes the crime of theft.
Conversion is a legal term that refers to the wrongful exercise of control over another person’s property, depriving them of their right to possess or use it. It involves the intentional interference with the owner’s rights, such as selling, destroying, or altering the property without permission. Conversion can occur with both tangible and intangible property, and the owner may seek legal remedies, such as damages or the return of the property, to address the harm caused by the conversion.
Conversion refers to the unauthorized act of taking someone else’s property and using it as one’s own, without the owner’s consent.
To establish a conversion claim, the plaintiff must prove that they had a legal right to possess the property, that the defendant wrongfully took or used the property, and that the plaintiff suffered damages as a result.
Yes, conversion can occur with both tangible property (such as a car or jewellery) and intangible property (such as money or intellectual property).
Yes, conversion can be both a civil and a criminal offense. In criminal cases, it is often referred to as theft or larceny.
The remedies for conversion typically include the return of the property to the rightful owner, payment of damages to compensate for any harm caused, and in some cases, punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer.
Conversion generally requires an intentional act of taking or using someone else’s property without their consent. However, in some cases, negligence or recklessness can also give rise to a conversion claim.
Yes, a conversion claim can be brought against a government entity if they wrongfully take or use someone else’s property without legal justification.
The statute of limitations for filing a conversion claim varies by jurisdiction. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine the applicable time limit for your specific case.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 6th April, 2024.
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