Recovering Loaned Vehicle Legally

Summary

The user, Connie, is struggling to recover a vehicle loaned to a business associate who is now hiding the car. She is advised on various legal options in Florida and Indiana, including pro bono services, self-representation, and filing a lawsuit for conversion. She is also informed about the concept of conversion and the potential legal binding of verbal agreements. Additionally, she is guided on bankruptcy options in Florida and advised to consult with her insurance company regarding the car insurance.

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I understand this may be s civil suit but i cannot afford a lawyer
Hello ****, it seems like you're concerned about the costs of legal representation. May I ask which state you are located in? This will help me provide the most relevant information.
Florida and I’ve called the bar association many many many times I don’t respond
I'm sorry to hear about your situation, ****. In Florida, you might consider these options:
- Legal aid societies offer free legal services to those who qualify.
- Pro bono attorneys provide services at no cost.
- Court-based self-help centers.

Consider reaching out to Florida Legal Services or local legal aid societies.
Tried
You can also try the Florida Pro Bono Matters website for free legal assistance. If you're comfortable with it, you can represent yourself in court, a practice known as "Pro Se" litigation.
My partner loaned his vehicle to his business associate God I know we are asking for it back is hiding in the car
Hello ****, I'm sorry to hear about your situation. In Florida, if someone refuses to return your property, it's considered theft. You can:
- Report it to the police
- File a civil lawsuit for the return of the property or its value.
It's advisable to consult with a legal expert for the best course of action.
Unfortunately because we loaned him the car it’s not considered stolen
I understand your concern, ****. However, if the car isn't returned after a reasonable time or upon request, it might be seen as unauthorized usage. Are you able to contact this person or have you tried involving law enforcement?
I’ve tried everything
Hello ****, I'm sorry for the predicament you're in. In Florida, you can consider filing a lawsuit for "conversion" which is unauthorized use of personal property. Legal advice is recommended before proceeding.
What is conversion
Conversion is a legal term that refers to unauthorized use or possession of someone's personal property. It's a civil wrong (a "tort") that can provide the basis for a lawsuit demanding return of the property or compensation for its value.
But there police said we have him the car we have no recourse , he’s got the car in indiana and I’ve called the police there too
I understand your frustration, ****. However, if the car is in Indiana, you might need to follow their state laws. It would be helpful if you consult with an Indiana attorney to understand your options.
Cant get a hold of an attorney in indiana that isn’t alot off money
I understand, ****. In Indiana, try reaching out to Indiana Legal Services, a not-for-profit law firm that offers free legal aid to eligible individuals. You can also check with the Indiana State Bar Association for a list of pro bono lawyers.
We’re in bankruptcy because of this man
I'm sorry to hear about your situation, ****. Filing for bankruptcy can offer relief from debts and a fresh start. In Florida, you may consider the following options:
- Chapter * Bankruptcy: Quick debt relief but may require selling some assets.
- Chapter * Bankruptcy: Repayment plan over *-5 years, keeping your assets.
Consult with a bankruptcy attorney for guidance.
Yes it was discharged but now we ate still paying gor the insurance on a car that this man is hiding
I see, ****. Since the car insurance is in your name, you may want to consult with your insurance company about your options. They might be able to guide you. Have you tried contacting them yet?
Yes
Thank you for the information, ****. If the insurance company is unable to assist, you might need to consider a legal remedy. Were there any agreements or written contracts when you loaned the car to this individual?
Just verbal aggreenent
I understand, ****. Despite the absence of a written agreement, a verbal agreement can still be legally binding. However, they can be challenging to prove. Do you have any evidence of this agreement, like text messages or emails?