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.
How Can a Civil Forfeiture Lawyer Help?
Facing civil forfeiture can be a terrifying experience. However, with a civil forfeiture lawyer on your side, you will have an ally who understands the nuances of these complex laws. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the details regarding the criminal activity and the alleged connection to your property.
Your lawyer can identify ways your rights were violated and defend you through legal action against the government. They can help prove that the items were not connected with the crime and that the government had no right to take possession of them.
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.
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.