5. Owner's Rights.—
The owner whose vessel is seized in admiralty is entitled to release her immediately by giving a bond to secure payment of the libellant's claim. This bond may be in double the amount of the claim, or for such smaller amount as may be agreed upon between the parties, or for the appraised value of the ship. In practice, such bonds are usually arranged between the parties and their proctors[32] without the expense and delay incident to an actual seizure. It is not unusual to notify the owner of the commencement of the suit before process is issued and he will generally agree to appear and bond accordingly. This, however, is only courtesy and not a matter of right. At the same time the amount of the bond can be arranged and, when filed, the suit proceeds as if there had been an actual arrest and bonding. The bond takes the place of the ship for all legal purposes and she proceeds about her business entirely freed from the lien in suit.
The owner must establish his status with the court by filing a claim. This is a formal statement on oath of his title to the property. If he desires to contest the libellant's demand, he must file an answer to the libel. The cause is then at issue and will be disposed of by the judge in due course. The time will depend largely on the parties.