Miami Asset Forfeiture Attorney
An Asset Forfeiture Attorney Protecting Your Rights & Property in Florida
Introducing Nayib Hassan, a seasoned asset forfeiture attorney in Florida, renowned for his expertise in navigating the complexities of this legal realm.
In Florida, asset forfeiture occurs when the government seizes your property, regardless of guilt or innocence in a criminal case. Law enforcement authorities possess the power to confiscate your assets, including money, vehicles, and even your home, without filing criminal charges against you.
This practice is conducted under the purview of federal and state laws, such as the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act (Chapter 932, Florida Statutes), which grants authorities the ability to initiate forfeiture proceedings. Astonishingly, countless individuals each year find themselves subject to asset seizures worth billions of dollars, despite not being convicted or formally charged with any offense.
Nayib Hassan’s profound understanding of local statutes, coupled with his unwavering commitment to protecting individuals’ rights, empowers his clients to mount strategic and vigorous defense strategies in the face of unjust asset forfeitures.
When authorities attempt to seize your assets, get help from an experienced lawyer
Asset forfeiture is the technical name for when the government confiscates your property. In theory, asset forfeiture programs are supposed to help law enforcement agencies to fight criminal activity by depriving criminals of the proceeds of illegal activity, deterring crime and restoring property to victims of crime. But, in practice, the asset forfeiture laws can do a lot of damage to the lives of innocent people.
Asset forfeiture may happen without regard to whether the property owner is guilty or innocent. Police can seize your property without charging you with a crime. This includes taking your money, vehicles and home. Every year, law enforcement agencies use federal and state laws to seize assets worth billions of dollars from people who are not convicted of or charged with a crime.
Is civil asset forfeiture legal in Florida?
Yes, civil asset forfeiture is legal in Florida under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act. This law permits law enforcement agencies to seize and forfeit property associated with criminal activity, even if the owner hasn’t been charged. However, safeguards exist: the government must establish probable cause, and property owners can challenge the forfeiture by filing a claim. Seeking legal representation is crucial for navigating this complex process and protecting one’s rights.
How do asset forfeiture laws in Florida contribute to a revenue stream for local and federal law enforcement agencies?
Asset forfeiture laws originated in the 1970s and 1980s as a way of fighting drug trafficking. Today, property seizure has been extended to almost anyone who is stopped and/or searched by police. When your property has been confiscated through asset forfeiture, getting your property back can be very difficult. You need a law firm experienced in asset forfeiture laws and procedures to help you reclaim your property.
At Law Office of Nayib Hassan, we help our clients reclaim their property when it has been seized by a local, state or federal law enforcement agency.We hold government accountable to show that the property was connected to an illegal activity. We can help you prove that the property came from a legitimate source and can often negotiate the return of your property without a trial.
What are the defense strategies for asset forfeitures in Florida, considering the specific circumstances?
Several defense strategies can be used to help you regain your property:
- Innocent owner defense: Showing that the property owner is innocent and did not know about or consent to any illegal use of their property.
- Unreasonable delay defense: Demonstrating that the government delay in filing charges hindered your ability to get your property back.
- Disproportional fine defense: If the amount of property seized does not seem in proportion to the severity of the offense, confiscating property may be considered unjust and unconstitutional.
- Statutory defenses: Other, more specific defense strategies are often available under federal or state laws.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can determine which asset forfeiture defense strategy will be best for your case.
If your property has been seized in an asset forfeiture,
contact the Law Office of Nayib Hassan for the aggressive defense you need
Nayib Hassan helps clients reclaim their property when it has been seized by government agencies. We will review your case and advise you of your best options. Call (305) 403-7323 or contact us online to speak with Nayib Hassan today.