By Raphaël MORENON
20 March 2025
Disputes over the ownership or possession of movable property can become complex. When an item belongs to you but ends up in the hands of a third party, there is a specific procedure to protect your rights: seizure and reclamation. Although little known to the general public, this protective measure is a powerful legal tool if you know how to use it properly. Understanding seizure and reclamation Definition and purpose Seizure and reclamation is a precautionary measure that renders movable property unavailable until a final court decision orders its return to the claimant. Its purpose is to prevent the disappearance, deterioration or disposal of an asset during legal proceedings. As stated in article L. 222-2 of the French Code of Civil Enforcement Procedures (CPCE): "Any person apparently entitled to demand the delivery or restitution of a tangible movable asset may, pending its delivery, make it unavailable by means of a seizure and sale". This procedure makes it possible to "freeze" the legal situation...
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