Mississippi § 89-17-19 - Failure of defendant to appear at return term; funds condemned to satisfy judgment.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 89-17-19 — Failure of defendant to appear at return term; funds condemned to satisfy judgment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 89-17-19. Failure of defendant to appear at return term; funds condemned to satisfy judgment.
In case the defendant shall not appear at the return term of the writ, or in cases against unknown owners, where no person or party interposes a claim, the court shall award the petitioner a judgment for the amount as appears to the court that petitioner is entitled to, and condemn the funds in the hands of the sheriff, or render judgment against the defendant or his bond as the case may be, for the satisfaction of the judgment so rendered and costs. In case there shall be a surplus remaining in the hands of the sheriff after satisfying the judgment and costs, it shall be paid to the clerk of the court, to be held by him subject to the claim of the owners of the property so sold, and shall be paid out to such owner, upon the order of the court, after satisfactory evidence is adduced, establishing in the judgment of the court such ownership. In all cases where the petitioner establishes his claim, and is awarded a judgment for the amount stated in the petition, the court shall allow the petitioner a reasonable attorney’s fee for preparing the petition, which shall be taxed as part of the costs of the case.
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 89-17-19
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 89-17-19 cover?
Section 89-17-19 ("Failure of defendant to appear at return term; funds condemned to satisfy judgment.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. 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 Mississippi § 89-17-19?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 89-17-19" (Mississippi). 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 Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 89-17-19 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi 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 Mississippi.