Legal Term: SEIZURE,

Definition: practice. The act of taking possession of the property of a person condemned by the judgment of a competent tribunal, to pay a certain sum of money, by a sheriff, constable, or other officer, lawfully authorized thereto, by virtue of an execution, for the purpose of having such property sold according to law to satisfy the judgment. By seizure is also meant the taking possession of goods for a violation of a public law; as the taking possession of a ship for attempting an illicit trade. 2 Cranch, 18 7; 6 Cowen, 404; 4 Wheat. 100; 1 Gallis. 75; 2 Wash. C. C. 127, 567.

2. The seizure is complete as soon as the goods are within the power of the officer. 3 Rawle~s Rep. 401; 16 Johns. Rep. 287; 2 Nott & McCord, 392; 2 Rawle~s Rep. 142; Wats. on Sher. 172; Com. Dig. Execution, C 5.

3. The taking of part of the goods in a house, however, by virtue of a fieri facias in the name of the whole, is a good seizure of all. 8 East, R. 474. As the seizure must be made by virtue of an execution, it is evident that it cannot be made after the return day. 2 Caine~s Rep. 243; 4 John. R. 450. Vide Door; House; Search Warrant.

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