To better protect your assets from government seizures, you should ensure you document everything, especially large purchases. You should maintain thorough documentation attesting to the legitimate source of your earnings and all transactions you make. Avoid making large, unexplained cash transactions, file appropriate tax returns, and get legal advice. If you work in a high-risk field, you should think about getting proactive legal counsel to set up your finances.
Fort Lauderdale Federal Asset Forfeiture & Seizure Lawyer
Fort Lauderdale Federal Asset Forfeiture & Seizure Attorney
When a federal agency unexpectedly shows up at your door to seize your belongings, it can be easy to panic. Whether you’re a business owner or a simple citizen, a federal asset seizure can drastically impact your life. If you’ve recently experienced a federal asset seizure and forfeiture, it’s critical that you seek support from a skilled Fort Lauderdale federal asset forfeiture & seizure lawyer who can protect your property and your rights.
Why Choose The Kirlew Law Firm?
At The Kirlew Law Firm, our skilled team has successfully represented clients in high-stakes federal seizure cases throughout South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale and Broward County. We understand just how daunting a seizure and forfeiture case may be and are devoted to advocating for your rights and securing the assets that are important to you. You can rely on our team to leverage our knowledge, experience, and determination to protect your livelihood.
How Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Work in Fort Lauderdale
Asset seizure and forfeiture are legal tools used by the U.S. government to acquire property that is believed to be tied to criminal activity. While the two actions often coincide, it’s important to understand the differences between the two legal tools and how they’re used together to take property.
- Seizure: Seizure refers to the act of the government taking certain assets or property. This can happen during an investigation, raid, undercover operation, or even a routine traffic stop.
- Forfeiture: Forfeiture occurs once the seizure has taken place. Once property has been seized, the government will try to go through the forfeiture process in order to permanently keep the assets that were seized.
What Assets Can Be Seized During a Federal Seizure and Forfeiture in Florida?
Fort Lauderdale is a high-traffic city with ports, airports, and international access, making those in the city more prone to federal forfeiture and seizure. Knowing your rights and the rights of the government is crucial in case you find yourself in a chaotic situation. The following are common assets that the federal government may attempt to seize:
- Bank accounts
- Cash
- Cars and personal vehicles
- Personal homes, vacation homes, and other real estate
- Digital assets, including cryptocurrency
- Business inventory
Understanding Federal Asset Seizure and Forfeiture in Fort Lauderdale
Assets can be seized and forfeited through three main legal avenues, known as:
- Civil Forfeiture: Through civil forfeiture, the government can take property based solely on suspicion and without a criminal conviction.
- Criminal Forfeiture: Property can occasionally be seized earlier if there is compelling evidence, but criminal forfeiture is linked to a criminal case and often occurs after a conviction.
- Administrative Forfeiture: When the value of the property drops below a certain point, administrative forfeiture takes place without the intervention of the court.
Information from the Department of Justice states that 78% of forfeitures occurring from 2000 to 2019 were administrative, 16% were criminal, and 6% were civil-judicial. You should consult with your attorney to better understand how your case is being handled.
The Importance of Hiring a Federal Seizure and Forfeiture Early
If your assets have been seized, you should act quickly and retain help from a skilled lawyer. You only have a certain amount of time to address the seizure after it happens, and if you miss any deadlines or submit incorrect paperwork, you may risk permanently losing your assets.
Because asset seizure and forfeiture cases tend to be technical, a skilled attorney can guide you through the complex process of contesting the forfeiture. In order to build a strong claim, your lawyer can help you gather all relevant evidence, including receipts, bank statements, witness statements, and more.
Once you contest the forfeiture of your assets, an experienced lawyer can defend your rights and negotiate on your behalf to secure your belongings again. Generally, your lawyer can work to settle these matters outside of court. However, if they are unable to reach an agreement with the prosecution, your lawyer can represent you and fight for your property in court. Regardless of how complex your case is, it’s vital that you have a trusted attorney on your side.
FAQs About Federal Asset Forfeiture & Seizure Law in Fort Lauderdale,FL
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Federal Seizure and Forfeiture Case in Florida?
Regardless of how complicated your case may be, working with an experienced defense lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing your seized property. A forfeiture attorney has the experience and knowledge needed to help you aggressively contest the actions of the government and protect your rights. If your property was seized in Fort Lauderdale or surrounding areas of southern Florida, do not wait to hire an experienced lawyer from our firm.
How Do I Get Money Back From a Civil Forfeiture in Florida?
To get money back from civil forfeiture in Florida, you must file a legal claim. This claim contests the seizure that occurred and forces the government to provide thorough, compelling evidence as to why your property is connected to unlawful activities. If they cannot do so, your attorney can combat the government’s reasoning for the seizure and secure your assets.
How Does Federal Forfeiture Work in Florida?
Federal forfeiture begins when law enforcement seizes property they believe is linked to criminal activity. The government may use administrative processes, civil litigation, or criminal charges to enforce forfeiture. If the government demonstrates in a compelling manner that the property is linked to unlawful activities, it may be forfeited. Even if you are not convicted of a crime, the government still may have the right to seize your property.
Don’t Wait to Protect Your Property and Your Rights
If you have had your assets seized in Fort Lauderdale, it’s crucial that you don’t wait to fight back. At The Kirlew Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of Broward County residents and are prepared to fight for you. Contact The Kirlew Law Firm today for superior legal representation and support.
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