Cleveland Civil Forfeiture Lawyers

Helping Clients Retain Their Property

Everyone knows that stealing is wrong. But what do you do when the government is the one taking your property? In a process called civil forfeiture, the government may legally seize a private citizen’s property. When this happens, you may be left wondering if you will ever see your property again.

If you are facing civil forfeiture procedures, you can reach out to Watson Kuhlman, LLC. We have been protecting citizens’ rights for decades and know how to handle these complex issues. We understand Ohio laws regarding government possession of private property, and we can help defend your rights.

Call today for a free consultation to discuss the details of your unique situation at 216-208-7858.

What Is Civil Forfeiture?

Civil forfeiture occurs when law enforcement or other government agencies claim they must take possession of the private property as part of a criminal investigation. The property can be confiscated even if the owner is not charged or convicted of a crime, because, in these cases, the government is taking action against the item rather than the individual.

While civil forfeiture cases are often contested as unconstitutional, proponents believe that this practice is an effective measure against crime organizations. However, when you are the person being singled out, it can be a terrifying and shocking experience.

Please contact our civil forfeiture lawyers right away if you have had your property unlawfully seized by the government. We may be able to help.

When Is it Lawful for the Government to Seize a Citizen’s Property?

While many states have passed laws to reform civil forfeiture procedures, this practice still occurs in the Cleveland area. According to Ohio law, government agencies may confiscate property from individuals if the property was likely used in a crime. Unfortunately, this includes innocent owners who have no connection to the crime.

For example, if an individual is suspected of using a home to produce, store, or distribute illegal drugs, police may take possession of the house. Innocent members of the household would then be left homeless, regardless of their lack of participation in the crime. Any item of value used in the criminal activity may be subject to civil forfeiture, including vehicles, jewelry, and real estate.

Common Types of Property Seized in Civil Forfeiture Cases

In Cleveland, civil forfeiture laws allow law enforcement to seize property they believe is connected to criminal activity. This process can be overwhelming, especially when individuals face the sudden loss of valuable assets. The types of property often subject to asset forfeiture include:

Cash and Bank Accounts: Law enforcement frequently seizes cash or freezes bank accounts if they suspect the funds are linked to illegal activity, such as drug trafficking or fraud.
Vehicles: Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles allegedly used in the commission of a crime are often taken by authorities.
Real Estate: Homes, apartments, or commercial properties believed to be involved in criminal activities, such as housing illegal operations, may be seized.
Electronics: Computers, phones, or other electronic devices that may contain evidence of a crime can also be taken during an investigation.
Valuable Personal Property: Items such as jewelry, firearms, and collectibles are sometimes targeted for forfeiture if tied to alleged criminal actions.

Understanding your rights under civil forfeiture laws is critical when facing the loss of property. Watson & Kuhlman provide aggressive criminal defense strategies to help clients challenge unjust seizures and regain their assets. If your property has been seized, contact our team to take immediate action.

How a Civil Forfeiture Lawyer Can Defend Your Rights

Facing civil forfeiture can be overwhelming and confusing, as it often involves the sudden loss of property without the need for a criminal conviction. However, with a dedicated civil forfeiture lawyer by your side, you gain an advocate who will stand up for your rights and challenge the government’s actions.

A skilled attorney will carefully examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged criminal activity and evaluate the evidence linking your property to the accusations. They will look for procedural errors, violations of your constitutional rights, or insufficient proof to justify the seizure.

Your lawyer can develop a defense strategy to demonstrate that your property was not involved in any illegal activity. For instance, they may present evidence showing lawful ownership, legitimate financial transactions, or that the seized items were not connected to any alleged crimes.

Additionally, your attorney will work to hold the government accountable for overstepping its authority. This includes filing motions to challenge improper forfeiture actions or negotiating with prosecutors to secure the return of your property. With a criminal defense lawyer advocating for you, you can take steps to regain what is rightfully yours and protect yourself from unjust penalties.

If you are facing civil forfeiture, Watson & Kuhlman is here to help you navigate these complex legal proceedings and fight for your rights. Contact our team today for the support you need.

Should You Hire Our Civil Forfeiture Attorneys?

If you have had property confiscated during civil forfeiture proceedings, please don’t feel you must go through this frightening experience alone. Many people wonder what they can do to fight unlawful government actions and may feel that they will never see their property again. However, this is not the case!

Individuals and families going through civil forfeiture can take legal action to stop the government from taking possession of their belongings. The best way to begin is by contacting a trusted legal representative right away. You should seek out attorneys familiar with civil forfeiture laws, as these regulations are complex and not something every lawyer deals with very often.

Book a Consultation Today

At Watson Kuhlman, LLC, our criminal defense attorneys have regular experience defending clients who are victims of civil forfeiture. We know what it takes to win back the items that the government has wrongfully taken. Our decades of experience allow us to skillfully defend our clients, helping restore justice and get them back into their everyday lives.

Don’t risk losing your possessions by going with attorneys who won’t be able to adequately fight for you. Trust Watson Kuhlman, LLC, for excellent counsel and representation in your civil forfeiture case.

Call 216-208-7858 today to schedule a consultation with our talented legal team and find out how we can help you.