Asset Forfeiture Defense: Protecting Your Property Rights in California

At Rucci Law, we understand that facing asset forfeiture can be a terrifying experience. It’s a process that can quickly and devastatingly impact your financial future and your freedom. Government agencies, particularly the Department of Justice and local law enforcement, can seize assets allegedly connected to criminal activity, even if you haven’t been formally charged with a crime. This page aims to demystify the asset forfeiture process and explain how Rucci Law will aggressively defend your rights.

What is Asset Forfeiture?

Asset forfeiture is a legal process where the government seeks to take control of property—such as cash, vehicles, real estate, and financial accounts—that is believed to be connected to criminal activity. There are two primary types:

• Criminal Forfeiture: This occurs when property is directly linked to a specific criminal offense, like drug trafficking or money laundering.
• Civil Forfeiture: This doesn’t require a criminal conviction. The government must prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the asset was connected to illegal activity.

Why is Asset Forfeiture a Serious Threat?

The asset forfeiture process can be incredibly complex and often involves significant government overreach. Sometimes, evidence used to seize assets is circumstantial or unreliable. Crucially, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and the burden of proof rests entirely on the government. Without a criminal conviction, it’s incredibly difficult to challenge a civil forfeiture claim.

Your Rights During Asset Forfeiture

At Rucci Law, we champion your constitutional rights, including:

• The Right to Due Process: You have the right to a fair hearing and the opportunity to challenge the government’s evidence.
• The Right to Counsel: You have the right to be represented by an experienced attorney who understands asset forfeiture laws.
• The Right to Confront Evidence: You can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the validity of the evidence presented by the government.
• Protection Against Seizure Without Probable Cause: The government must demonstrate probable cause before seizing your assets.

Rucci Law’s Approach

We go beyond simply arguing against the seizure of your assets. We meticulously investigate the government’s case, scrutinize the evidence, and utilize strategic legal maneuvers to protect your rights. Our experienced California criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your financial security and freedom. Don’t face this challenge alone. Contact Rucci Law today for a confidential consultation.