Facing accusations of asset forfeiture can be incredibly unsettling. At Rucci Law, we understand the profound impact this can have on your financial security and freedom. Asset forfeiture – the government seizing your property – isn’t a foregone conclusion. We’re dedicated to aggressively defending your constitutional rights and ensuring you receive a fair outcome in California.

What is Asset Forfeiture?

Asset forfeiture is a legal process where the government takes property believed to be connected to criminal activity. It’s often linked to drug trafficking, organized crime, or other illegal operations. However, the process itself can be fraught with potential errors and overreach. There are two primary types of forfeiture: civil forfeiture (where the government must prove a connection to criminal activity) and criminal forfeiture (tied to a criminal conviction).

Your Rights During an Asset Forfeiture Case

You have significant rights that the government must respect. Rucci Law will fight to protect them, including:

• The Right to Due Process: The government must demonstrate a sufficient factual basis for their claims, not just suspicion.
• The Right to Counsel: You have the right to hire an experienced attorney to represent your interests.
• The Right to Challenge Evidence: We rigorously scrutinize the evidence the government presents, seeking to expose weaknesses and inaccuracies.
• The Right to Notice: You must be formally notified of the forfeiture proceedings.
• Protection Against Seizure Without Probable Cause: The government needs more than just a hunch; they must demonstrate probable cause before seizing your assets.

Common Issues in California Asset Forfeiture Cases

We frequently encounter situations where the government’s evidence is weak, insufficient, or obtained through improper procedures. This can include:

• Lack of Probable Cause: The government’s initial seizure was based on speculation rather than concrete evidence.
• Insufficient Evidence at Trial: Even if a seizure occurred, the government fails to present a compelling case at the subsequent forfeiture hearing.
• Constitutional Violations: Government actions infringe upon your Fourth Amendment rights (protection against unreasonable searches and seizures).

Why Choose Rucci Law?

At Rucci Law, we bring extensive experience and a relentless commitment to protecting our clients’ rights. We’re not just lawyers; we’re aggressive advocates who understand the complexities of California’s asset forfeiture laws. We take the time to thoroughly investigate your case, build a strong defense, and fight for the best possible outcome. Don’t face this challenge alone. Contact Rucci Law today for a free consultation.