Legal Definition of Impound

Cars are often impounded.

Property can be impounded for several reasons, including vehicle violations and criminal investigations. "Impound" can also be used as a financial term. In general, if your property has been impounded, you will be able to retrieve it.

Word Origin

The word "impound" comes from the Old English term for "to shut up in a pen."

Property Impoundment---Legal Cases

A piece of property might be evidence in a criminal case. The government might impound the property during the investigation and trial.

Property Impoundment---Vehicle Violations

Property might be impounded due to a relatively minor crime. A vehicle might be impounded for driving with a suspended license.

Financial Impoundment

When a person borrows funds secured by a property, they often pay an additional fee to the lender---on top of monthly payments---that the lender puts aside to pay insurance and property taxes.

Retrieving Impounded Property

The owner generally has to pay a fee to get back the vehicle. If they believe a vehicle was unfairly impounded, they can request a hearing. In some states if a vehicle is impounded for a second time, the owner might be forced to give up the car permanently.

References

• Law.com Dictionary
• Most Common Equipment Violations
• Online Etymology Dictionary

Resources

• LawHelp