If you believe your property has been seized without your involvement in criminal activity, it is time to take action. Continue reading to learn about civil asset forfeiture in New York, how law enforcement can seize your property, and how to handle a civil asset forfeiture case. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you with your upcoming legal proceedings.

What Exactly Is Civil Asset Forfeiture?

Civil asset forfeiture is a legal procedure in NY that give a go ahead to law enforcement officials to seize property that has been claimed to be involved in criminal activity. The following are examples of property that can be seized under New York’s forfeiture law:

• Personal property
• Stocks
• Real estate
• Automobiles
• Electronics Clothing
• Jewelry
• Bank accounts
• Currency

Property can be seized by law enforcement officials without you being charged with a crime.

Can The Civil Asset Forfeiture Law Be Used To Seize My Property?

Overall, the New York forfeiture law was legislate in order to combat organized crime by seizing ill-gotten gains. However, it is possible that innocent people’s property will be targeted. If you have been a victim of this, it is critical that you understand the following aspects of forfeiture law:

• The majority of civil asset forfeiture cases are federal;
• Your property will remain guilty until proven innocent;
• Civil asset forfeiture is an action that takes against property, not the owner;
• Law enforcement does not require a criminal conviction or criminal charge to seize your property.

How to Handle a Civil Forfeiture Case

In general, prosecutors in New York can use criminal forfeiture far more easily in drug and organized crime cases than in other types of criminal cases. Criminal forfeiture statutes in New York, such as New York Penal Law Article 480, require prosecutors to prove the forfeit ability of assets beyond a reasonable doubt, a much higher standard than a preponderance of the evidence.

Hiring an experienced and understanding criminal attorney to walk you through the case process is one of the most important steps to take after your property has been seized under the civil forfeiture law. When your property has been seized and made the subject of a civil lawsuit, you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney. Our firm is ready to handle your case with sensitivity. We have helped many people reclaim their seized property. Contact our law firm today to learn more about our services and to set up an initial consultation.