Delaware § 4001 - Definition of abandoned personal property.
Full text of Delaware Delaware Code § 4001 — Definition of abandoned personal property., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4001. Definition of abandoned personal property.
(a) For the purposes of this chapter “abandoned personal property” shall be deemed to be tangible personal property which the rightful owner has left in the care or custody of another person and has failed to maintain, pay for the storage of, exercise dominion or control over, and has failed to otherwise assert or declare the ownership rights to the tangible personal property for a period of 1 year.
(b) The following personal property shall not be deemed to be “abandoned personal property”:
(1) Marital property subject to division in a proceeding for divorce or annulment under § 1513 of Title 13;
(2) Personal property which has been stolen or otherwise taken from its rightful owner in violation of Title 11;
(3) Personal property which has been taken from the rightful owner by conversion;
(4) Personal property of a person who dies intestate subject to subchapter I of Chapter 11 of Title 12;
(5) Unclaimed property held by banking organizations as defined by subchapter II of Chapter 11 of Title 12;
(6) Any intangible personal property and the tangible evidence thereof under Chapter 11 of Title 12; or
(7) Personal property in a motor vehicle that is not attached to or considered necessary for the proper operation of the motor vehicle if the owner of the personal property files an answer to the petition pursuant to § 4003 of this title.
72 Del. Laws, c. 192, § 1; 78 Del. Laws, c. 21, § 1; 83 Del. Laws, c. 125, § 4;Source: official Delaware text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware § 4001
What does Delaware Code § 4001 cover?
Section 4001 ("Definition of abandoned personal property.") is part of the Delaware Code, the codified statutory law of Delaware. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Delaware § 4001?
A common citation format is "Delaware Code § 4001" (Delaware). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Delaware law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Delaware official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Delaware attorney.
How does Delaware § 4001 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Delaware can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.