Understanding the Authority of Oklahoma Authorities on Animal Sales
Hello, I’m OKC business attorney Dillan Savage with Wirth Law Office, and I primarily practice in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area.
Today, we’re going to discuss who has the authority to order funds from the sale of an animal of questionable ownership to be held until ownership is established.
Who Can Seize Sale Proceeds?
If an animal is taken to market for sale and its ownership is in question, a police officer in Oklahoma or a livestock association with federal authority to inspect brands—in certain designated markets—can order that the funds from the sale be held until ownership is confirmed.
If it is later determined that you are the rightful owner, the funds should be promptly returned to you, following whatever process the association has in place for releasing those funds.
What Happens After 30 Days?
If ownership cannot be established within 30 days, the funds must be sent to the Oklahoma State Board of Agriculture. The Board will hold the funds for up to one year.
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- If, during that year, you can prove ownership, the funds will be returned to you.
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- If ownership is not established within that year, the money is transferred to the State Department of Agriculture’s revolving fund, which is used to support the department’s operations.
Summary of Ownership Disputes
In summary, if there’s a dispute over an animal’s ownership—possibly involving concerns about theft—authorized officials can temporarily seize the sale proceeds until rightful ownership is determined. If the matter isn’t resolved within the statutory timeframes, the funds ultimately go to the Department of Agriculture.
If you found this information helpful or believe it could help someone else, please visit theoklahomacityattorney.com.
Get a Low-Cost Consultation
I’m the Oklahoma City attorney Dillan Savage with Wirth Law Office—thank you for watching. If you have questions about your situation or need assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at 405-888-5400 for a low-cost consultation.
