Recovering Artwork Legally

Summary

The users ex-girlfriend, with whom they were never married, has some of their old artwork. She promised to ship it back months ago, but has since gone no contact. The user wishes to file a motion to attach, but is unsure as to how to price items that cannot be replaced or replicated. The user is advised to get an appraisal from a professional art appraiser for the estimated value of the artwork. In New Hampshire, theres no specific limit on the number of items that can be listed in a motion to attach. However, each item should be clearly described and valued. The valuation of artwork is typically done by a professional art appraiser. They have the expertise to determine the market value of the items. In New Hampshire, theres no specific monetary value requirement for items listed in a motion to attach. However, the total claim cannot exceed $10,000 in small

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Ex girlfriend (never married) has some of my old artwork. She promised to ship it back months ago, but has since gone no contact. I wish to file a motion to attach, but am unsure as to how to price items that cannot be replaced or replicated
What is the estimated value of your artwork? In New Hampshire, small claims court handles cases up to $*,*.
I don't know the estimated value, I don't know how to estimate the value, that's my legal question
Have you considered getting an appraisal from a professional art appraiser? They can provide an estimated value for your artwork.
How many items can be listed in a motion to attach
In New Hampshire, there's no specific limit on the number of items you can list in a motion to attach. However, each item should be clearly described and valued.
Who does the valuation?
The valuation of artwork is typically done by a professional art appraiser. They have the expertise to determine the market value of your items.
Do the items listed in a motion to attach need to need a certain monitory value requirement?
In New Hampshire, there's no specific monetary value requirement for items listed in a motion to attach. However, the total claim cannot exceed $*,* in small claims court.
Can you get items back in small claims court
In New Hampshire, small claims court can order the return of property. However, it's important to provide a detailed description and estimated value of the items.
How do I go about filing a request of return of property
To file a request for return of property in New Hampshire, you need to:

- File a claim in small claims court
- Provide a detailed description and estimated value of the items

For more information, contact your local court.
Is the request for return if property handled in small claims
Yes, in New Hampshire, small claims court can handle requests for return of property. You'll need to file a claim and provide a detailed description and estimated value of the items.
It says small claims doesn't bring the items back to me. How do I file a request to have the items returned? It's not via small claims
In New Hampshire, you may need to file a "replevin" action in a higher court to recover personal property. Have you consulted with a local attorney about this?
Do you have any resources on free local attorneys
What city are you located in? This will help me provide you with the contact details of the nearest legal aid office.
Andover
The nearest legal aid office to Andover, New Hampshire is the New Hampshire Legal Assistance at * Green St, Concord, NH *. You can reach them at (*) *-*.
How to request the return of stolen items back from a person
To request the return of stolen items, you may need to file a police report and potentially a civil lawsuit. Have you reported this to the police yet?
Does small claims return stolen items back to you
In New Hampshire, small claims court typically handles monetary disputes. For return of personal property, you may need to file a "replevin" action in a higher court.
Does a replevin need to meet a certain monetary value requirement
In New Hampshire, there's no specific monetary value requirement for a replevin action. The key is proving ownership and wrongful possession by the other party.
What if I do not know her personal address?
Do you have any other means of contacting her, like email or phone? In New Hampshire, you can serve papers via certified mail or personal service.
I have both, as well as her previous address she's since moved away from, and her step mother's address
What is the nature of the artwork and its estimated value? In New Hampshire, small claims court handles cases up to $*,*.
Silicone molds of plaintiff's genitalia
What is the estimated value of the silicone molds? In New Hampshire, small claims court handles cases up to $*,*. If the value exceeds this, you may need to file in a higher court.
Unsure. I'm more concerned I do not know her current address. What do I do if I do not know her personal address? What are ways to serve her that aren't in person or via mail?
Have you considered serving her through publication or electronic means? In New Hampshire, these are acceptable methods when the defendant's address is unknown.
Am I able to serve the papers via email?
In New Hampshire, electronic service is generally not allowed unless agreed upon by both parties. Have you discussed this option with her?
She has gone no contact with me and will not respond. Can I serve her via phone number?
In New Hampshire, serving papers via phone is not an acceptable method. You may consider serving through publication if other methods fail.
What does that entail?
Serving through publication in New Hampshire involves publishing the notice in a newspaper that is circulated in the area where the defendant is likely to be.
What are acceptable ways to serve someone if they cannot be seen in person or the mailing address is unknown
In New Hampshire, if you can't serve in person or by mail, you can:

- Serve through publication in a local newspaper
- Serve at the defendant's last known address
- Serve through a close relative or household member

Remember to check with the court for specific rules.
Does serving the close family member entail handing in person or can I send it via mail
In New Hampshire, serving a close family member can be done either in person or via certified mail. Always keep proof of service.
What if the close family member does not open the mail?
In New Hampshire, as long as you can provide proof of delivery, it's considered served even if the family member doesn't open the mail.
Can I serve her through her step mother via mail, and does it count as served if she step mother never opens it?
What is the nature of the legal document you are trying to serve? This will help me provide accurate information.
Writ of replevin
In New Hampshire, you can serve a writ of replevin through a third party. However, it's important to ensure the person is of suitable age and discretion. Did the stepmother agree to accept the service?
I have no contact with anyone, no one is responding
In New Hampshire, you can hire a process server or sheriff to serve the documents. They can leave the documents at the defendant's dwelling with a person of suitable age and discretion.
Can I serve a writ of replevin and motion to attach via mail to her step mother's house?
In New Hampshire, you can serve legal documents via certified mail. However, it's recommended to use a process server or sheriff for important documents like a writ of replevin.
Does it count as served even if she doesn't open it
In New Hampshire, if the certified mail is delivered and signed for, it is considered served, even if the recipient doesn't open it.
What does certified mail mean?
Certified ****ail is a service offered by USPS that provides the sender with a mailing receipt and electronic verification of delivery or attempted delivery.
How do I ask for that? Does it include requiring a signature at delivery?
Yes, certified mail requires a signature upon delivery. You can request this service at your local post office. They will provide you with a receipt and tracking number.
How does one go about asking a sheriff to serve a motion to attach/writ of replevin
To have a sheriff serve a motion to attach/writ of replevin in New Hampshire, you can contact your local sheriff's office. They will guide you through the process and fees involved.
Can I serve a motion to attach to someone's step mother via mail?
In New Hampshire, you can serve legal documents via certified mail to a third party of suitable age and discretion. However, it's recommended to use a process server or sheriff for important documents.
What is a process server
A process server is a professional who serves court documents to a defendant or person involved in a court case, ensuring they receive proper legal notice.
Can I hire one even if I don't know the defendant's address?
Yes, a process server can help locate the defendant through skip tracing. However, additional fees may apply for this service.
What is a skip trace?
A skip trace is a process of locating a person's whereabouts for any number of purposes. It's often used by process servers or private investigators to find defendants who are avoiding legal documents.
To file a writ of replevin I need to know the defendant's address. How do I use skip trace to serve them if I can't file without an address?
A skip trace can be conducted by a professional process server or private investigator. They use various databases and techniques to locate the defendant.
Does that occur before or after the paperwork is filed with the court?
The skip trace process typically occurs before the paperwork is filed with the court, as you need to provide the defendant's address in the court documents.
How much does it cost to file a writ of replevin
The filing fee for a writ of replevin in New Hampshire varies by court. You can contact the New Hampshire Judicial Branch at (*) *-* for specific information.
List all fees according to each court
I'm sorry, but I don't have the specific fee information for each court in New Hampshire. Please contact the New Hampshire Judicial Branch at (*) *-* for accurate information.
Can I hire a sheriff to serve the paperwork (motion to attach and writ of replevin) to the step mother, even if my ex doesn't live with her?
Does the stepmother have any involvement or connection to the artwork in question?
No but she is in contact with the defendant
What is the nature of the stepmother's involvement with the defendant? Is she aiding in withholding your artwork?
No, and she is here step mother, a close relative
Is the stepmother in possession of your artwork? In New Hampshire, you can hire a sheriff to serve papers to anyone involved in the case.
No
What is your ex-girlfriend's current address? In New Hampshire, legal documents should be served to the defendant at their current address.
I do not know current address as she has moved, I only know the step mothers
Do you have any other means of contacting your ex-girlfriend, such as email or phone number? In New Hampshire, alternative methods of service may be used if the defendant's address is unknown.
I do but she isn't responding
Have you tried serving the papers through certified mail to her last known address? In New Hampshire, this is an acceptable method if the defendant's current address is unknown.
Would that still count as served even if she doesn't live there anymore?
In New Hampshire, service by certified mail to the last known address is generally considered valid, even if the defendant no longer resides there.
Does that count as served? Shouldn't I have a sheriff serve the paperwork to her old roommate?
In New Hampshire, service by certified mail to the last known address is generally considered valid. However, hiring a sheriff for service can provide additional assurance.
Is it counted as service a writ of replevin if the paperwork is served via mail to a previous address?
In New Hampshire, service by certified mail to the last known address is generally considered valid, even for a writ of replevin.
Would it be a stronger case if I had a sheriff serve it?
In New Hampshire, having a sheriff serve the papers can provide additional assurance and may strengthen your case by ensuring proper service.
Does serving through mail to a previous address, even if she doesn't live there, count as served, even if she doesn't open the mail?
In New Hampshire, service by certified mail to the last known address is generally considered valid, even if the recipient doesn't open the mail.
When filing a writ of replevin do I need to also file a motion to attach at the same time
In New Hampshire, a motion to attach isn't necessarily required when filing a writ of replevin. However, it can provide security for the plaintiff if the defendant doesn't comply.
How to file a writ of replevin
What is the estimated value of the artwork in question? In New Hampshire, you can file a writ of replevin at your local court. The nearest court to you is the New Hampshire Supreme Court, * Charles Doe Dr, Concord, NH *, +* *-*-*.
Less that $*,*
In New Hampshire, for property valued under $*,*, you may consider filing in small claims court. The limit in NH is $*,*.
I want my items back
What steps have you taken so far to retrieve your items?
****any and I need to take legal action, what form do I file
In New Hampshire, you would file a "Writ of Replevin" form to recover your artwork. You can obtain this form from your local court.
Whats the difference between a complaint for writ of replevin vs a writ of replevin
A "Complaint for Writ of Replevin" initiates the legal process, explaining why you believe you're entitled to the property. The "Writ of Replevin" is the court order requiring the return of the property.
Does a complaint for writ of replevin need to be notarized?
In New Hampshire, a complaint for writ of replevin does not typically need to be notarized. However, it's always best to check with your local court for specific requirements.
Why would I include a motion to attach in my complaint for writ of replevin
Including a motion to attach in your complaint for writ of replevin in New Hampshire can provide security by ensuring the defendant's property is seized if they fail to comply with the court's order.
Do I need to know the exact location of my items to file a complaint?
In New Hampshire, it's not necessary to know the exact location of your items to file a complaint for a writ of replevin. However, any information about the location can help in the recovery process.
If I send service papers to her previous address, and she does not show up for court, but paperwork shows the mail was delivered, can she claim she was never served correctly?
In New Hampshire, if the certified mail was delivered to her last known address, it's generally considered valid service. However, she could potentially challenge this in court.
How much legal standing does that position have
In New Hampshire, if service was properly executed according to the state's rules, it generally holds strong legal standing. However, each case is unique and outcomes can vary.
what are the rules exactly?
In New Hampshire:

- Legal documents should be served to the defendant at their current address.
- Alternative methods of service may be used if the defendant's address is unknown.
- Service by certified mail to the last known address is generally considered valid.
- A sheriff can serve papers to anyone involved in the case.
- A motion to attach isn't necessarily required when filing a writ of replevin.
- You can file a writ of replevin at your local court. The nearest court to you is the New Hampshire Supreme Court, * Charles Doe Dr, Concord, NH *, +* *-*-*.
- For property valued under $*,*, you may consider filing in small claims court. The limit in NH is $*,*.
- A "Complaint for Writ of Replevin" initiates the legal process, explaining why you believe you're entitled to the property. The "Writ of Replevin" is the court order requiring the return of the property.
- A complaint for writ of replevin does not typically need to be notarized.
- Including a motion to attach in your complaint for writ of replevin can provide security by ensuring the defendant's property is seized if they
If service is sent to a previous address she does not live anymore, does it count as served if she never reads it? It's not her current address
In New Hampshire, service by certified mail to the last known address is generally considered valid, even if the recipient doesn't open the mail.
If I am served paperwork via mail, but it's sent to an address I don't live at anymore, can I claim I was never properly served?
In New Hampshire, if you were served paperwork via certified mail at your last known address, it's generally considered valid service. However, you could potentially challenge this in court.
If I am served paperwork via mail, but it's sent to an address I don't live at anymore, and was expected ti show up in court but never did, can I claim I was never properly served?
In New Hampshire, if you were served paperwork via certified mail at your last known address, it's generally considered valid service. However, you could potentially challenge this in court.
How quickly does a complaint for writ of replevin need to be filed after items are taken?
In New Hampshire, there's no specific time limit to file a complaint for writ of replevin. However, it's advisable to file as soon as possible to expedite the recovery of your property.
Does it extend to out of state individuals who used to live in New Hampshire when the property was taken, but now live in another state?
Are you asking if you, as an out-of-state individual, can file a writ of replevin in New Hampshire for property taken while you were residing there?

In New Hampshire:
- You can file a writ of replevin in the state where the property is located.
- The nearest court to you is the New Hampshire Supreme Court, * Charles Doe Dr, Concord, NH *, +* *-*-*.
We both used to live in New Hampshire, but she moved to ****aine while taking my items with her
Did she take your items with her to ****aine without your consent?
Yes
In New Hampshire, if your property was taken without your consent and moved to another state, you may need to file your case in ****aine. Have you contacted a legal professional in ****aine?
No I was told I would file in new Hampshire as that's where the incident occured and where I reside
What is the nature of the items taken? This can help determine the jurisdiction for filing your case.
Personal property worth under $*,*
What type of personal property was taken?
A skateboard, ukulele, artwork of silicone molds of plaintiff's genitalia, along with some other small items
What is the estimated total value of all these items?
Under $*
In New Hampshire, for property valued under $*, you may consider filing in small claims court. The limit in NH is $*,*. The nearest court to you is the New Hampshire Supreme Court, * Charles Doe Dr, Concord, NH *, +* *-*-*.
I want my items back
What steps have you taken so far to retrieve your items?
Oh my d
What happened when you tried to retrieve your items?
I had items taken from an ex girlfriend who has now since moved to another state. What state do I file a complaint for writ of replevin
You should file the complaint for writ of replevin in the state where the property is currently located, which in this case is ****aine.
Even if her last known address is in NH
Yes, even if her last known address is in NH, you should file the complaint for writ of replevin in the state where the property is currently located, which is ****aine.
Are you familiar with ****arines laws?
What specific aspect of ****arine law are you interested in? It's a broad field covering maritime activities, naval issues, and more.
****aine laws not marine
What specific aspect of ****aine law are you interested in?
Complaint for writ of replevin and motion to attach
What is the current location of the items you wish to reclaim?
Portland
What is the address of the location in Portland where your items are currently held?
Her last known address is in new Hampshire but she has since moved
Do you have any information about her new address in ****aine?
New address unknown
In ****aine, do you have any other means of contacting your ex-girlfriend, such as email or phone number?
I do but she has gone no contact
Have you tried reaching out to her through any mutual contacts or social media?
Yes still no luck
Have you considered hiring a private investigator to locate her current address in ****aine?
Do I absolutely need her new address? I thought sending mail to previous residencies was considered a proper way to serve
In ****aine, similar to New Hampshire, serving legal documents to the last known address is generally considered valid. However, it's always best to serve at the current address. Have you considered hiring a private investigator?
Only if they're free
Unfortunately, private investigators typically charge for their services. However, you may want to consider this as an option to ensure proper service of your legal documents.
If I am served paperwork via mail, but it's sent to an address in a state I don't live at anymore, how much legal standing out chance do I have in claiming i was never properly served?
In ****aine, if you were served paperwork via certified mail at your last known address, it's generally considered valid service. However, you could potentially challenge this in court.
How much legal standing does "could" have in this conversation, possibly, unlikely, or could actually happen?
The term "could" indicates a possibility. However, the success of challenging a service largely depends on the specific circumstances and evidence presented in court.
Do I need an attorney to file a complaint of writ of replevin in ****aine
While it's not required to have an attorney to file a writ of replevin in ****aine, it's often beneficial due to the complexity of the process. Are you comfortable handling this on your own?
How do I file a complaint of writ for replevin in Portland ****aine if I don't live there?
Are you able to travel to ****aine for court appearances or do you plan to hire a local attorney to represent you?

- ****aine law allows you to file a writ of replevin yourself.
- Cumberland County Courthouse, * Newbury St, Portland, ****E *, (*) *-*.
Can you give me any ideas on the price for that?
What specific cost are you referring to - filing the complaint, hiring a local attorney, or traveling to ****aine?
Hiring an attorney, you can give a very broad estimate
The cost of hiring an attorney can vary greatly, but on average, you might expect to pay between $*-$* per hour. However, some attorneys may offer flat fee services for specific tasks.
If my case is filed in ****aine, do I need an attorney from ****aine
Yes, it's generally advisable to hire an attorney licensed in the state where your case is filed, as they'll be familiar with local laws and court procedures.
Is it possible for you to provide resources on available attorney groups in ****aine
Sure, here are a few attorney groups in ****aine:

*. ****aine State Bar Association: (*) *-*
*. Pine Tree Legal Assistance: (*) *-*
*. Legal Services for the Elderly: (*) *-*

Please contact them directly for assistance.
Any free legal aid?
Yes, Pine Tree Legal Assistance provides free legal aid to eligible individuals. You can contact them at (*) *-*.
Are they from ****aine?
Yes, Pine Tree Legal Assistance is based in ****aine. They provide free legal aid to eligible individuals in the state.