Facts
A rogue obtained cotton from its owners by fraud. A broker, acting in good faith, bought it and resold it to a buyer.
Issue
Is an innocent intermediary liable for ?
Held
The broker was liable.
Principle
Conversion is strict. Honestly dealing with goods in a way that denies the true owner's title is still conversion.
Why it matters
Shows that good faith is no defence to conversion.
Cited in these chapters
Cite this page
Hollins v Fowler (1875) LR 7 HL 757 (Lanbuk) <https://www.lanbuk.com/llb/torts/cases/hollins-v-fowler> accessed 31 October 2026
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This summary is a Lanbuk study aid based on the generally known facts and reports of the case. It is not legal advice.