How Can I Get My Seized Cash Back from the Airport in Florida?

When traveling through an airport, most people are focused on getting to their destination in a timely fashion. However, this can quickly be disrupted if you have cash that gets seized by security at your local Florida airport. Unfortunately, this happens more than you might think, leaving many travelers confused and wondering, “How can I get my seized cash back from the airport in Florida?”

Why Cash Gets Seized at Airports

Every year, federal agents seize millions of dollars at airports, and Florida airports are no exception. In 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized an average of $182,998 daily.

Airports like the Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) often have seizures because they deal with countless international passengers. However, many individuals have their money seized in Florida airports with no arrest or charge. Instead, a federal agent asked them a few questions, searched their belongings, and took the money, leaving them confused.

Unfortunately, this happens often. Most of the time, these individuals are not doing anything wrong and are simply unaware that they have to report the money to the United States. Those traveling to or from the United States must disclose any cash they have that totals over $10,000.

This regulation is applicable to everyone, not only Americans. While U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the agency most frequently involved in these seizures, other federal agencies, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), also carry out seizures when they suspect money laundering, drug trafficking, or structuring.

Common Instances Where Airport Seizures Happen

Agents may seize money at airports for a variety of reasons. While travelers often travel with large amounts of money for completely legitimate reasons, some triggers that could result in an airport seizure include:

• A traveler goes to visit family and takes large amounts of money to help support them.
• A businessman traveling with only cash to complete a legitimate business deal.
• A vacationer goes home after receiving large casino winnings.

Even if you have a legitimate reason for traveling with large amounts of cash, an agent can still seize your money if they are suspicious that it may be coming from illegal activity. It will be up to you to prove that the money is legitimate in order to get it back.

What Happens After Your Money Is Seized in a Florida Airport?

When your cash is seized at the airport, you should be given a receipt for the property and a notice of seizure and intent to forfeit. This letter tells you why the seizure occurred and gives you a deadline to reply, which is typically 30 days. You may be given a few options, including filing a petition to request the agency to return the money to you or submitting a claim to contest the forfeiture in front of a judge.

How to Get Back Cash That Was Seized in a Florida Airport

If you are stopped by agents at the airport, the first thing you want to remember is to remain calm. Do not argue with the agents or cause a scene. If you’re nervous, exercise your right to remain silent and ask for legal counsel right away, as they can advise you on what to disclose.

You should gather all the proof necessary to prove that your money came from a legitimate and legal source. This can include bank withdrawal and deposit receipts, tax returns, pay stubs, business information, and letters explaining where the funds came from. The more you can prove that the funds are legitimate, the stronger your case will be.

If a government agency does not believe your money came from a legal source, you should contact an attorney if you have not already. Trying to retrieve seized money from airport agents can be complex, and fighting an officer may just make the situation worse.

If needed, an attorney can help you file your claim to contest the seizure of your assets and fight to have them returned. In many cases, an attorney can negotiate with the agency to get a portion, or all, of your cash returned without having to go to court.

FAQs About Florida Airport Cash Seizure Law

Can Law Enforcement Confiscate Cash Seized in an Airport?

Yes, law enforcement can confiscate cash if they believe it is being used for illegal purposes. They do not have to charge the cash holder with a crime to do so. This can be carried out in accordance with civil asset forfeiture statutes. You have the right to contest the seizure and request the return of your property through the correct channels, but the seizure must adhere to legal requirements.

How Do I Get Seized Money Back From a Florida Airport?

To recover cash taken at a Florida airport, you must file a legitimate claim within 30 days of receiving a seizure notification if you were unable to prove your money’s legitimacy when it was seized. You should present detailed records attesting to your funds’ legitimate source and intended purpose. Your prospects of recovering your money through negotiation or legal action are significantly increased when you work with a skilled forfeiture lawyer.

What Does Customs Do With Seized Cash?

Cash seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection is placed in federal custody and, if forfeited, may eventually be placed in the U.S. Treasury’s Asset Forfeiture Fund. If the owner is unable to successfully contest the seizure, the funds may be utilized to support law enforcement operations. In certain situations, a settlement or legal claim may result in the return of a share.

Do You Get Your Money Back If It’s Seized at a Florida Airport?

After a seizure, you can get your money back, but it’s not guaranteed. By submitting a timely and well-prepared claim, you can proactively contest the forfeiture of your money. Your funds can be restored if you demonstrate that they were obtained lawfully and weren’t used for illegal purposes. Having legal counsel is essential for navigating this procedure and improving your chances of securing your money.

Contact The Kirlew Law Firm Today

From Orlando to Miami, our team at The Kirlew Law Firm has assisted countless clients across Florida in fighting the unfair seizure and forfeiture of their money. Contact us today to fight for the money that’s rightfully yours.