In the case of a bailment, who typically retains ownership of the property?

In a bailment, the ownership of the property typically remains with the bailor. A bailment occurs when the owner of a property (the bailor) temporarily transfers possession of that property to another party (the bailee) for a specific purpose, such as storage, repair, or use. However, despite this transfer of possession, the bailor retains ownership rights to the property.

The bailee has a responsibility to take care of the bailed property and return it in its original condition, but they do not acquire any ownership rights. This distinction is crucial in understanding the legal relationship between the parties in a bailment. For example, if a person leaves their car with a mechanic for repairs, the mechanic (bailee) has possession of the car but does not own it; the car remains the property of the owner (bailor) throughout the duration of the bailment.

Understanding this relationship helps individuals recognize their rights and responsibilities in situations involving the temporary transfer of property.