Protecting Your Assets: Understanding Asset Forfeiture in California

At Rucci Law, we understand that the threat of asset forfeiture can be overwhelming. Facing accusations that your property – your savings, your home, your business – could be seized by the government can feel like a profound violation. Often, these accusations stem from criminal charges against you, but the process of asset forfeiture operates independently, presenting a significant challenge to your rights.

What is Asset Forfeiture?

Asset forfeiture is a legal process where the government seeks to take control of property believed to be involved in criminal activity. It’s crucial to understand that you are not automatically guilty of a crime simply because the government wants to take your assets. The government must prove a strong connection between your property and the alleged crime through a rigorous legal process.

How Does the Process Work?

Typically, the process begins with the government filing a civil action – a lawsuit – seeking to forfeit your property. They will present evidence, often seized property itself, and argue that it’s connected to their criminal case. This is distinct from a criminal trial, where you are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Challenging Forfeiture Evidence: Our Approach

Rucci Law specializes in challenging forfeiture cases in California. We recognize that government agencies, particularly those involved in asset forfeiture, often pursue aggressive tactics. We will meticulously examine the government’s evidence, looking for:

• Weak Links in the Chain of Evidence: We scrutinize how the government obtained the evidence – was it lawfully obtained?
• Lack of Probable Cause: Did the government have sufficient justification to seize your property in the first place?
• Failure to Meet the Burden of Proof: The government bears the responsibility to prove, by clear and convincing evidence, that your property is connected to the crime.

We focus on protecting your constitutional rights, including the Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. We’ll aggressively argue for the return of your assets if we believe the government’s case is weak or that the seizure violated your rights.

Don’t Face This Alone.

Asset forfeiture cases are complex and emotionally challenging. Rucci Law is dedicated to providing you with experienced legal counsel and a relentless defense. Contact us today for a consultation and learn how we can protect your financial future.

Rucci Law – Fighting for Your Rights.