Federal Property Seizure: Protecting Your Assets in California

At Rucci Law, we understand that the prospect of federal asset forfeiture can be terrifying. It’s a process designed to strip you of your assets, often based on tenuous connections to criminal activity. We’re dedicated to aggressively defending your rights and safeguarding your financial future in California. This page will explain the process and how we fight to protect you.

What is Federal Property Seizure?

Federal property seizure, under laws like 18 U.S. Code § 981, allows law enforcement to take assets believed to be derived from or used to facilitate criminal activity. This can include cash, vehicles, real estate, and business accounts. It’s crucial to understand that the government doesn’t need to prove you *committed* a crime to seize your assets; they only need to establish a link between the asset and the alleged criminal activity.

The Process – And Where You Can Fight Back

The government’s process typically involves these steps:

• Administrative Warrant: This is issued without a judicial hearing, authorizing seizure of the asset.
• Notice of Forfeiture: You’ll receive a notice outlining the government’s claims.
• Judicial Hearing: This is your opportunity to challenge the government’s evidence.

At Rucci Law, we vehemently oppose the government’s overreach and challenge their evidence at every stage. We’ll focus on:

• Weaknesses in the Government’s Evidence: Often, the evidence is circumstantial, incomplete, or based on flawed assumptions.
• Lack of Due Process: We’ll scrutinize whether the government followed proper procedures in obtaining the initial seizure.
• Constitutional Rights Violations: We’ll protect your Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendment rights, ensuring fair treatment and preventing self-incrimination.

Your Rights and Our Role

You have the right to legal representation – and it’s critical you have an experienced attorney by your side. Rucci Law’s team specializes in asset forfeiture defense and will:

• Negotiate with the Government: We can often negotiate a settlement that minimizes the loss of your assets.
• Conduct a Thorough Investigation: We’ll investigate the government’s claims and uncover potential weaknesses.
• Represent You at All Court Hearings: We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your interests.

Don’t face this daunting process alone. Contact Rucci Law today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and build a strong defense. (555) 123-4567