True or False: A sheriff may rely on expert appraisals to determine the value of levied property.

True or False: A sheriff may rely on expert appraisals to determine the value of levied property.

• A. TRUE
• B. FALSE
• C. Not permitted
• D. Only with court approval

Answer: (A)

When a sheriff levies property to satisfy a judgment, determining the property's value is essential to set a fair and effective levy. Expert appraisals provide a credible, objective estimate of fair market value, especially for items whose worth isn’t obvious, such as machinery, antiques, or real estate. This helps ensure the levy is sufficient to recover the judgment without undervaluing or overvaluing the asset, aiding both the creditor and debtor. Using an appraisal is a normal and permitted practice, and while the sheriff may obtain one themselves or accept a credible appraisal from parties, court approval is not typically required just to rely on an expert valuation.

When a sheriff levies property to satisfy a judgment, determining the property's value is essential to set a fair and effective levy. Expert appraisals provide a credible, objective estimate of fair market value, especially for items whose worth isn’t obvious, such as machinery, antiques, or real estate. This helps ensure the levy is sufficient to recover the judgment without undervaluing or overvaluing the asset, aiding both the creditor and debtor. Using an appraisal is a normal and permitted practice, and while the sheriff may obtain one themselves or accept a credible appraisal from parties, court approval is not typically required just to rely on an expert valuation.