Rucci Law: Defending Your Rights Against Vehicle Forfeiture

At Rucci Law, we understand that the seizure of your vehicle – a significant asset and often a vital part of your life – can be a devastating and frightening experience. When law enforcement initiates an asset forfeiture action, it’s critical to understand your rights and how we, as experienced California criminal defense attorneys, can aggressively protect them.

What is Vehicle Forfeiture?

Vehicle forfeiture is a legal process where the government seeks to permanently seize property – in this case, your vehicle – based on allegations connected to criminal activity. This can occur through two primary methods:

• Civil Forfeiture: This process often doesn’t require a criminal conviction. The government can initiate civil forfeiture based on “title” or “pending” forfeiture actions, meaning they don’t need to prove you were involved in a crime.
• Criminal Forfeiture: This occurs alongside a criminal prosecution, where the vehicle is seized as part of the sentencing or as a result of a criminal charge.

Understanding Your Constitutional Rights

Despite the government’s power to seize property, your constitutional rights remain paramount. Rucci Law will meticulously examine the evidence and challenge any violations of your rights, including:

• The Fourth Amendment: Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
• The Fifth Amendment: Right to due process and protection against self-incrimination.
• Lack of Probable Cause: The government must demonstrate probable cause to justify the seizure.

Common Concerns and How Rucci Law Addresses Them

We frequently hear concerns from clients about:

• Lack of Transparency: The forfeiture process can be complex and opaque. We’ll navigate the legal complexities for you.
• Overreach of Authority: The government sometimes pursues forfeiture actions without sufficient evidence, leading to unjust seizures.
• The Permanent Nature of Forfeiture: We fight to ensure your vehicle is returned if the government’s case is weak.

Our Aggressive Defense Strategy

Rucci Law takes a proactive approach to vehicle forfeiture defense. We will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of the government’s evidence.
• Challenge the validity of the forfeiture claim.
• Represent you in court, advocating for your rights at every stage.

Don’t face this challenge alone. Contact Rucci Law today for a free consultation. Let our experienced California attorneys protect your assets and your freedom.