in rem

adverb or adjective

in-ˈrem 

: against a thing (such as a right, status, or property)

—used especially of legal actions, judgments, or jurisdiction compare in personam

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

in rem

adverb or adjective

in-ˈrem 

: against or with respect to a thing (as a right, status, or interest in property) without reference to the persons involved

when the Government is proceeding against property in rem

—Austin v. United States, 509 U.S. 602 (1993)

an in rem action

see also in rem jurisdiction at jurisdiction compare in personam, quasi in rem

Etymology

Latin