Navigating Asset Forfeiture: A Guide to Reclaiming Your Property

Asset forfeiture can be a complicated process and represents a challenging aspect of the legal system. It involves significant stakes for clients whose property has been seized. At the Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell, we recently dealt with an asset forfeiture case where we contested the seizure of money and valuables by the DEA. Challenging the DEA asset forfeiture can seem like an overbearing legal obstacle but at our firm we were able to tackle these kinds of cases for our clients.

Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell’s DEA Asset Forfeiture Procedures

A DEA asset forfeiture is a legal process where the government seizes assets possibly connected to criminal activities. Assets can include money, vehicles, real estate and other valuable property. The purpose of an asset forfeiture is to deprive an individual engaging in criminal activities of their resources. However, an asset forfeiture is not always completely justified, and it is possible to have the government return all if not some of an individual’s assets. The forfeiture process begins by law enforcement seizing. When our client receives a notice of seizure, it details what has been seized and how to challenge the forfeiture. Our client did not comprehend fully how to challenge the forfeiture as it is a lengthy and overwhelming process for someone that has little to no legal knowledge. Challenging a DEA asset forfeiture meant that we had to navigate through intricate procedures and strict requirements. It is also more complicated when a lot of assets have been seized as there is more at stake. To successfully handle an asset forfeiture, we have to prove that the belongings our client had were not a result of money obtained from criminal activities but rather through legal means. We gathered evidence showing that the property was not involved in illegal activities and that our client was an innocent owner. The evidence included letters from those who gave money to our client and letters from those who have purchased items from our client. If it pertains to material assets such as real estate or valuables, showing evidence of the purchase date and how our client was able to purchase the item is vital. Our offices were able to obtain our clients’ bank statements and show how they received this money whether it was through employment or family and friends.

Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell’s DEA Asset Forfeiture Preparation

At the Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell, we conducted an in-depth investigation and made sure to gather all the information needed to demonstrate the legal acquisition of our client’s assets. We are willing to engage in negotiations with state and federal authorities. Along with providing our client’s bank statements, we prepared a brief and crafted a strong legal argument challenging the DEA’s seizure. We were able to file our challenge and provide the government with the documentation they needed before the deadlines.

At the Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell, we understand that dealing with asset forfeiture can be complex and stressful. It requires prompt action, a solid understanding of legal rights and the help of knowledgeable legal counsel. This is why it is important to have skilled legal representation, especially when a lot is at stake. We were able to successfully obtain a large portion of the assets seized from our client. Each DEA asset forfeiture case is unique as it may involve different types of assets, but we are able to tailor our approach to fit the specifics of your situation. With every case we are committed to achieving great outcomes for our clients and advocate to the full exercise of their rights. If you or someone you know has received a notice regarding a DEA asset forfeiture, please contact our offices.

EBM Law’s Commitment

The Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell, located at 142 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick NJ 08901, are committed to helping our clients fight for the appropriate assessment. Eric B. Morrell has over 20 years of experience in defending clients with criminal charges. Some charges that he routinely deals with are:

1.     Criminal Defense

2.     DUI/DWI

3.     Guns and Weapons Crimes

4.     Pre-Trial Detention Hearings

5.     Expungements for Prior Convictions