If friendly persuasion doesn't work, there is a type of lawsuit that fits the situation. In the old days it was called "replevin" but California's Code of Civil Procedure now refers to it as a lawsuit for "claim and delivery." Basically, it is an action to recover possession of personal property wrongfully in the hands of another. Perhaps the brother-in-law would give you access to your things after receiving a letter from an attorney indicating that a suit would be filed in, say, 30 days unless arrangements were made, and carried out, for return of the property.
If friendly persuasion doesn't work, there is a type of lawsuit that fits the situation. In the old days it was called "replevin" but California's Code of Civil Procedure now refers to it as a lawsuit for "claim and delivery." Basically, it is an action to recover possession of personal property wrongfully in the hands of another. Perhaps the brother-in-law would give you access to your things after receiving a letter from an attorney indicating that a suit would be filed in, say, 30 days unless arrangements were made, and carried out, for return of the property.
