term:

Quasi In Rem

quasi in rem adv or adj

[Latin, as if against a thing]
: as if one were proceeding against the thing used esp. in reference to proceedings (as for attachment of property) in which one seeks satisfaction of a claim against a person by adjudication of rights to a particular property over which jurisdiction can be obtained see also quasi in rem jurisdiction at jurisdiction compare in personam, in rem NOTE: The plaintiff in a quasi in rem action uses the court's jurisdiction over the defendant's property in hopes of obtaining a remedy for a claim (as for money) against the defendant. A quasi in rem action is often used when jurisdiction over the defendant cannot be obtained due to his or her absence from the state.

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.