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Civil Forfeiture Abuse

Civil Forfeiture Abuse Attorney in El Paso

Serving Clients Throughout Texas & New Mexico

Civil forfeiture is a controversial legal mechanism allowing law enforcement agencies to seize property they believe is connected to illegal activities. While originally devised to combat organized crime and dismantle its financial foundation, the process has strayed from its initial intent. Civil forfeiture has transformed into a tool for revenue generation for the police, often at the expense of innocent citizens. 

At Benjamin Law Firm, we understand the gravity of this issue and are committed to assisting Texans affected by civil forfeiture abuses. We leverage our negotiating and trial skills to help clients fight back against unjust governmental practices and reclaim their property. 

If you find yourself in this situation, you need powerful representation. Contact us at (915) 320-6730 today for a confidential consultation with an El Paso civil forfeiture abuse lawyer.

Where Does Civil Forfeiture Come From?

Civil forfeiture dates back to the colonial era but rose to prominence in the 1980s as a weapon against organized crime. The aim was to weaken criminal enterprises by disrupting their financial networks. Over time, however, the scope and application of civil forfeiture expanded significantly. Today, it’s not just the kingpins and their vast riches that are targeted. Ordinary citizens, often with minimal or no ties to criminal activity, find their assets seized. A growing concern is that some law enforcement agencies view civil forfeiture more as a lucrative revenue stream than as a tool to deter crime.

How Does Civil Forfeiture Work in Texas?

Here’s how the process typically works:

  • Seizure: Law enforcement officers can seize assets if they have “probable cause” to believe they are linked to criminal activity. This includes cash, cars, homes, or other valuables. Importantly, the owner doesn’t need to be charged with a crime.
  • Notification: After assets are seized, the property owner is usually notified and provided with details about the potential forfeiture and the steps needed to challenge it.
  • Legal action: The government must file a legal action in court to keep the seized assets permanently. At this stage, the property owner must step in to challenge the forfeiture, often within a strict timeframe.
  • Disposition: If the government succeeds in the legal action, the seized assets are permanently forfeited. The proceeds from these assets often go directly to law enforcement budgets.

In short, civil forfeiture, with its low burden of proof and potential benefits to law enforcement budgets, has led to concerns of misuse, incentivizing seizures that are not always directly linked to significant criminal activities.

Strength for the Battle Ahead Turning Challenges Into Triumphs

Here's What Sets Benjamin Law Firm Apart
  • Strong Legal Relationships

    Our connections with colleages in the field, law enforcement, and prosecutors enhance our ability to advocate for you.

  • Board-Certified Attorney

    Founding attorney Brock Benjamin is one of only six certified criminal law attorneys in El Paso County.

  • Client-Centered Approach

    We prioritize your needs, keeping you informed and treating you with dignity throughout the entire legal process.

  • Aggressive Defense Strategy

    We conduct thorough investigations and leverage our nearly 100 jury trials to create effective strategies tailored to your case.

The Flawed Laws & Practices

Both federal laws and those specific to Texas have, either by design or omission, facilitated potential abuses in civil forfeiture. 

Several factors contribute to this:

  • Low standard of proof: Federal and state law requires only a “preponderance of the evidence” to forfeit property, a lower standard than the “beyond a reasonable doubt” requisite in criminal convictions. This makes it easier for assets to be seized and subsequently forfeited.
  • Equitable sharing: This controversial program allows state and local agencies to process forfeitures under federal law and then return a substantial percentage of the proceeds to the local agencies. This can incentivize agencies to bypass more restrictive state laws.
  • Direct financial incentive: In Texas, law enforcement agencies can retain up to 90 percent of the proceeds from forfeited assets. Critics argue that this presents a clear conflict of interest, potentially prioritizing revenue generation over impartial justice.
  • Lack of transparency: Records of seizures and the resultant usage of the proceeds aren’t always readily available for public scrutiny, making it difficult to assess the extent or purpose of seizures.

These factors, combined with a lack of consistent oversight and sometimes ambiguous legislation, have led to concerns of profiteering, overreach, and the erosion of citizens’ rights.

The Challenges of Reclaiming Property

Reclaiming property once it has been seized is an uphill battle fraught with myriad challenges:

  • Legal challenges: Property owners must navigate a convoluted legal system that often requires specialized knowledge to challenge a forfeiture. This system can be intimidating to the uninitiated.
  • High costs: In addition to legal fees, there are court costs, administrative fees, and sometimes even storage fees for seized assets like vehicles. These costs can quickly accumulate, sometimes even surpassing the value of the seized asset.
  • Time: The process of reclaiming property can be time-consuming, with some cases dragging on for months or even years. This long wait can be especially taxing if the seized asset, such as a vehicle or home, is essential to the owner’s daily life or livelihood.
  • Limited legal recourse: Property owners have very tight deadlines to contest a seizure – 20 days from the date of service of notice to respond. Missing these deadlines can mean forfeiting any chance of reclaiming the property.
  • Emotional strain: Beyond the tangible challenges, there’s a significant emotional toll. The feeling of being presumed guilty, the stress of potential financial loss, and the sense of powerlessness can be overwhelming for many.

Ultimately, law enforcement agencies have vast resources at their disposal, and individuals often feel dwarfed by comparison. This power imbalance can discourage property owners from challenging seizures, especially if they lack proper legal representation.

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How Our Firm Can Help

At Benjamin Law Firm, we are well-prepared to defend your rights. Our seasoned El Paso civil forfeiture abuse attorneys are deeply familiar with Texas and federal forfeiture laws. We continuously monitor updates and case law, ensuring that we’re always ahead of the curve. Knowing that every case is unique, we will meticulously review the details of your situation, crafting a strategy tailored to reclaim what’s rightfully yours. We believe in justice, not in further burdening those who’ve already been subjected to civil forfeiture. Our rates are competitive, and our initial consultation will provide clarity on your case.

Defending Texans Against Civil Forfeiture Abuse

Civil forfeiture abuse is a significant threat to the rights and properties of innocent citizens. If you or someone you know has been affected by such practices, seeking experienced counsel is essential. 

Benjamin Law Firm is here to protect your rights and help you fight for justice. Call us at (915) 320-6730 or fill out our online contact form today to get started.

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