Trespass of Chattels

Question 1

Trespass of Chattels (Catch-all for tangible movable personal property)

Answer 1

Is an intentional interference with a person’s use or possession of a chattel.

Question 2

Intent

Answer 2

Intent can be satisfied by the desire and purpose to interfere with the chattel of another. However, the defendant need only intend to interfere with the chattel in the manner he does, so a mistake as to chattel ownership will not provide a defense.

Question 3

Interference with Use or Possession

Answer 3

The chattel owner is precluded from using or possessing this chattel. Typically, this will be for a temporary time period.

Question 4

Chattel

Answer 4

Personal property