Overview of street findings and ownership rights in Russia
A Moscow-based legal expert explains that coins or similar items discovered on the street fall under the category of found property. Under Part 1 of Article 227 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, such finds must be returned to the rightful owner whenever possible. The guidance is provided by Lyudmila Elizarova, a lawyer affiliated with the Moscow City Bar Association Union of Lawyers, and it outlines the practical steps a finder should take when an item is found.
When a finder comes across money or valuables and there is no immediate information about the owner, the first recommended action is to report the discovery to the nearest police department or to the local government authority. It is important to document the exact circumstances of the find, including where the item was found, the approximate time, and the conditions under which it was found. This record helps establish a clear chain of custody and protects both the finder and any potential rightful owner. After reporting, the finder may keep the property for safekeeping while the proper authorities manage the next steps.
According to the lawyer, if no one reports the loss within six months and if the lost money cannot be traced to a specific person or if the owner chooses not to claim it, the right to the found money may transfer to the person who discovered it. Elizarova notes that if the true owner is later identified or a claim is made, the finder may still be compensated, with a reward either by mutual agreement or up to 20 percent of the amount found. This framework helps balance the interests of the finder and the rightful owner, while maintaining a transparent process for any potential reward.
There is a cautionary note attached to such finds. Misuse of a discovered asset could lead to criminal charges under Article 158 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. In other words, spending money that one knows to be found and not yet claimed could be treated as theft or related offenses, with legal consequences that attach to the finder’s actions.
There is also a reminder that proper conduct matters. If money is spent or used by the person who found it before the rightful ownership is established, the situation may be considered unlawful. The consequences depend on the specifics of the case, including how the money was used, how long it remained unclaimed, and whether any effort was made to locate the owner or report the discovery.
For those facing such situations, it is recommended to seek professional legal advice to navigate the nuances of property law, ownership claims, and potential rewards. A competent lawyer can help interpret the relevant rules and guide the finder through the correct procedures to protect their rights while ensuring compliance with the law, reducing the risk of unintended legal exposure. This guidance aims to clarify responsibilities during a find and to help individuals understand when and how a reward might be appropriate or required by the circumstances. The emphasis remains on lawful action, transparent reporting, and respectful resolution aligned with the interests of all parties involved.