What is Asset Forfeiture?

At Rucci Law, we understand that the prospect of having your property seized – whether it’s a home, vehicle, bank account, or business assets – is profoundly unsettling. Asset forfeiture is a legal process where the government seeks to take your property because it’s believed to be connected to criminal activity. It’s a powerful tool, but it’s also one that can be misused, and it’s crucial to understand your rights.

Unlike traditional criminal prosecutions where you are presumed innocent until proven guilty, asset forfeiture proceedings often operate with a significantly lower standard of proof. The government doesn’t need to prove you committed a crime to initiate forfeiture. Instead, they typically rely on circumstantial evidence, chain of custody, and connection to criminal activity. This can create a challenging situation for defendants, particularly when the evidence is questionable or incomplete.

Types of Forfeiture

There are several types of asset forfeiture proceedings:

• Criminal Forfeiture: This occurs during a criminal case and is tied to the specific charges against you.
• Civil Forfeiture: This is initiated by the government without a criminal case and relies on establishing a connection between your assets and criminal activity.
• Administrative Forfeiture: This is the fastest and most common type, often triggered by relatively low monetary thresholds.

Your Rights During Forfeiture Proceedings

At Rucci Law, we aggressively protect our clients’ constitutional rights throughout the entire asset forfeiture process. This includes:

• Due Process: You have the right to notice of the forfeiture action, the opportunity to challenge the government’s evidence, and a fair hearing.
• The Exclusionary Rule: Illegally obtained evidence cannot be used against you.
• Chain of Custody: We meticulously examine the evidence chain to identify any gaps or inconsistencies.
• Protection Against Government Overreach: We scrutinize forfeiture actions to ensure they are justified and comply with applicable laws.

Why Choose Rucci Law for Your Asset Forfeiture Case?

Our experienced team at Rucci Law specializes in asset forfeiture defense, navigating the complexities of California’s legal system. We understand the government’s tactics and are prepared to fight tirelessly on your behalf. We’ll conduct a thorough investigation, develop a strong defense strategy, and safeguard your rights every step of the way.

Don’t face this challenging situation alone. Contact Rucci Law today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your assets and your future.