Rucci Law – Safeguarding Your Investments: Navigating California’s Investment Asset Seizure Laws

Facing accusations of investment asset seizure can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. At Rucci Law, we understand. We’ve built our practice on a foundation of protecting individual rights and aggressively defending our clients against overzealous government actions. This page provides a clear explanation of investment asset seizure, specifically within the context of California law, and outlines our firm’s approach to defending your financial well-being.

What is Investment Asset Seizure?

Investment asset seizure, often referred to as civil asset forfeiture, is a legal process where law enforcement officials, typically through the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), can seize property believed to be connected to criminal activity – even if the owner hasn’t been formally charged with a crime. This isn’t about guilt; it’s about the *presumption* of wrongdoing. The government typically initiates a civil action, arguing the assets were derived from or used in connection with a drug trafficking operation, money laundering, or other illicit activities.

How Does it Work in California?

In California, the seizure process often begins with a petition filed with a local court. The government must demonstrate a “probable cause” connection between your assets and criminal activity. This doesn’t require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, the standard required in criminal cases. Crucially, the government must demonstrate that the assets are “proceeds” of unlawful activity or were used to facilitate that activity.

Your Constitutional Rights & Our Defense

At Rucci Law, we prioritize protecting your constitutional rights, particularly the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. We will challenge:

• The government’s evidence – often based on circumstantial evidence.
• The adequacy of the government’s showing of connection.
• The validity of the seizure process itself.

We recognize that government agencies sometimes engage in what feels like overreach. We are prepared to aggressively fight for your rights and demonstrate that the government has not met its burden of proof.

Don’t Delay – Protect Your Future

If you’ve been notified that your assets are under investigation for seizure, or if your assets have already been seized, contact Rucci Law immediately. Early intervention is critical. We can help you understand your rights, develop a strong defense strategy, and protect your financial future.

Rucci Law – Dedicated to Justice. Experienced in Asset Forfeiture.