What is Asset Forfeiture?

At Rucci Law, we understand that the threat of asset forfeiture can be incredibly unsettling. It’s a process where the government seizes property believed to be connected to criminal activity, even if you haven’t been formally charged with a crime. Unlike traditional criminal prosecutions where you’re presumed innocent until proven guilty, asset forfeiture operates under a different standard. The government doesn’t need to prove your guilt – only that there’s a *nexus*, a connection, between your assets and illegal activity. This can include drug trafficking, money laundering, or other offenses.

Your Constitutional Rights in Forfeiture Cases

The government’s power to seize assets isn’t unlimited. The Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution provide crucial safeguards. We aggressively defend against forfeiture claims by challenging the government’s evidence and arguing that their actions violate your rights. Specifically, we focus on:

• Lack of Probable Cause: The government must demonstrate probable cause – a reasonable belief – that your assets are connected to criminal activity. We scrutinize the evidence, often finding it to be weak, speculative, or based on assumptions.
• Due Process Violations: Forfeiture proceedings can be rushed and lack the procedural protections afforded in criminal trials. We ensure you receive fair treatment and due process under the law.
• Exclusion of Illegally Obtained Evidence: Evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures is inadmissible in forfeiture proceedings.

Common Grounds for Forfeiture Defense

At Rucci Law, we build our defense on several key strategies. These typically include:

• Insufficient Evidence: Demonstrating the government’s case is based on circumstantial evidence or speculation.
• Property Misidentification: Challenging whether the assets seized actually belong to you.
• Lack of Connection to Criminal Activity: Arguing that the seized assets were legitimately acquired or used for lawful purposes.

Why Choose Rucci Law?

Facing asset forfeiture is a serious matter. You need an experienced and dedicated legal team fighting on your behalf. Rucci Law’s attorneys specialize exclusively in asset forfeiture defense in California. We bring a meticulous approach, extensive legal knowledge, and a proven track record of successfully protecting our clients’ assets. We’re committed to aggressively challenging government overreach and ensuring your constitutional rights are fully protected. Don’t wait – contact Rucci Law today for a confidential consultation.