My former employer is stating that personal belongings of mine that were in the warehouse that I managed now belong to the company.
Granted these things should not have been there. They did not allow me to take them with me when I left, only the things in my office, stating that when the owner returned he would deal with me and my suspension and I could pick them up from him.
Now the owner will not take my calls, I have received my termination papers, but he has told the employees I'm not allowed to come and get my belongings.
What should I do ???

Thanks

Are these work related belongings that might legitimately be considered company property or things like photos and decorations you brought from home?

If it is the latter, I'd either stop by and ask to pick them up,or send a letter by certified mail with an itemized list of the items, stating that you intend to reclaim these things. If they do not comply, you can probably go through small claims court to get them back.

No, these are my personal things. I worked for a wheel manufacturer and had a set of tires there for my truck while I was waiting to get my wheels, (saving money). The other things are parts that I make for a small mail order business that I do on the side, nothing related to the wheel industry.
I had planned on sending a certified letter and even sending them an invoice from my business for the parts.


Thanks for getting back to me so quickly.

David

Small claims or contact the local police department and file a complaint. It is generally known as conversion, which is simply a term tantamount to theft.

Your former employer has no right to keep or retain your personal belongings.

What is the limit of small claims court ? These items are worth ~ $30k, yes, very expensive.

Should I contact a lawyer ?

Thanks again for the quick replies.

David

That is well over any small claims limit?

Given the value of this property, the advice and counsel of an attorney may well be worth it and likely to expedite the retuen of your property.