What is a bailee in a bailment?

A bailee in a bailment context refers to the individual who possesses the property temporarily. This relationship is established when the owner of an item (the bailor) hands over the property to the bailee for a specific purpose, such as storage, transport, or repair, with the understanding that the property will be returned to the bailor or disposed of according to the bailor's instructions after the purpose is fulfilled.

This definition highlights the temporary nature of the bailee's possession and the specific responsibilities that come with this role, such as the duty to take care of the property and return it in the same or agreed condition. The relationship is built on trust and the legal obligations that arise from the bailment contract.

Understanding this concept is crucial in various contexts, including funeral service, where handling personal items might be relevant during the process of serving clients and their families.