Important Legal Definitions
Explore legal terms, clear definitions and practical examples.
Action in Rem (Admiralty)
Jurisdictional & Appellate Practice Terms
Definition
A legal proceeding directed against the physical property or "res" itself (typically a maritime vessel or cargo) as the nominal defendant, rather than against the individual shipowner, allowing the vessel to be arrested and sold to satisfy maritime claims.
Example
A bunker fuel supplier files an admiralty suit against "The Vessel MV Ocean Pearl and her Owners" seeking the arrest and sale of the ship to satisfy an unpaid maritime lien; this is an action in rem.