in rem Hear it!

in rem Definition

in rem (in rem′)

noun

Law designating an action or judgment against a thing, as property, as distinguished from one against a person (in personam)

Etymology: L, lit., against the thing

in rem Law Definition

adj

Latin

Pertaining to a thing or to property. Litigation in rem (as opposed to in personam) determines the respective rights to property that has been brought before the court. 
quasi in rem
A type of case initiated by the seizure of property that is within the court’s jurisdiction, as a step toward obtaining monetary damages against an individual who is outside the jurisdiction of the court.