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State's Attorney's Office
 Rental Return Restitution Program :
Why Have a Rental Return Restitution Program?
  • To provide merchants a quick and effective way to recover their rental property and fees.
  • To concentrate prosecution on serious and repeat offenders.
  • To lessen the burden on the court system while producing a successful result for the merchant.
In Order to Qualify for the Program the Merchant Must Provide:
  • A written contract or lease,
  • Proof that a certified return receipt letter was sent to the renter of your property demanding the return of the goods at least 10 days prior to the filing of this complaint, and
  • Proof that the conversion took place within six months of the filing of this complaint. 
How Do I Take Advantage of theProgram?

  • Send the renter of the goods a certified return receipt letter making a demand for the return of the goods within ten days.
  • After the ten days elapse, schedule a conference with the State's Attorney's Office Rental Return Restitution Program by calling (240) 777-7399.
  • Bring a copy of the contract, proof of the return receipt, as much information as possible about the person who is the subject of your complaint, and a $15.00 mediation fee (by check, please) to the conference.
 
How Does the Mediation Process Work?
  • A letter signed by the State's Attorney will be sent to the possessor of the leased goods. He will be instructed to either return the goods and pay all rental fees or appear before a hearing officer at a mediation hearing at the State's Attorney's Office. You must also appear at the hearing to help resolve this matter.
How Long Does the Mediation Process Take?
  • The Rental Return Restitution Program will be able to complete its involvement in the case in approximately thirty days from the first meeting.
  • If this matter is not resolved on or before the mediation date, criminal charges may be filed if all requirements are met.
 
What Can I Expect to Recover Through the Mediation Process?
  •  If the goods are returned, we will attempt to collect rental fees up to the value of the item(s) plus reimbursement of the $15.00 mediation fee.
  • If the goods are not returned, we will attempt to collect the value of the goods plus reimbursement of the $15.00 mediation fee.
 
 
Last edited: 4/12/2008