Satinover

David Satinover appeals from an order of the superior court requiring the clerk of the court to pay defendants Pat Dean and Shelter Canyon, Inc., certain money from a cash deposit in lieu of bond. He contends the court erred in ordering recovery on the deposit in lieu of bond prior to the entry of a final judgment.

I

Factual and Procedural Background

In 1985, Satinover, Dean and Shelter Canyon, Inc. (Shelter), entered into a written employment contract whereby Satinover agreed to represent Dean in various business pursuits and Shelter agreed to be jointly and severally liable with Dean to Satinover.

Pursuant to the terms of the employment agreement, Satinover was given the exclusive use of a 1985 Mercedes Benz station wagon and an option to purchase the automobile for its “blue book” price at any time within 30 days after the termination of his employment.

In May 1986, Dean and Shelter failed to pay Satinover his basic monthly salary of $25,000, and Satinover filed a complaint in superior court for damages and injunctive relief for breach of contract, work and services performed and declaratory relief. The complaint prayed for a temporary restraining order and…