Understanding Your Rights During Civil Forfeitures
Did you just get shaken down by the police and they took all of your stuff without a trial? Hi, I’m Tahlequah criminal defense attorney Aaron Grubb at Wirth Law Office. In this video, we’re going to talk about the crazy situations and police conduct that is civil forfeitures.
A civil forfeiture is essentially when the police take your belongings and make you sign something that declares the items are the fruits of a drug deal or other illegal activity. By signing this, you essentially sign away your rights to that personal property, allowing the police to hold on to it for an indeterminate period until they file an application to officially keep it.
What Happens to Your Property During Civil Forfeiture?
While your property is stuck in limbo, there are a few actions you can take. You can file an application to have your items returned or consult with an attorney who can negotiate with the district attorneys on your behalf. This process can often be overwhelming, especially considering the significant amount of property being taken.
Interestingly, statistics show that Oklahoma had around $17 million worth of personal possessions confiscated in civil forfeitures in 2018 alone. This highlights a serious issue that often goes undocumented. Many individuals end up having their valuables seized, yet they lack the resources to fight back, because their assets are now in police custody.
The Scope of Civil Forfeiture
It’s not just smaller items that are at risk, like a PlayStation left in your car. Large amounts of cash, electronics, firearms, and various forms of personal property can all be subject to civil forfeiture. If you’ve been recently impacted by this process, it’s critical to understand your rights and options.
If you have recently fallen victim to civil forfeiture, I encourage you to reach out to me. My name is Aaron Grubb, and I am here to help you navigate this complicated situation. Remember, you are not alone in this process, and there are ways to reclaim what is rightfully yours.
Get a Low-Cost Initial Strategy Session
For a limited time, I’m offering a low-cost initial strategy session to discuss your case and explore your options. Don’t let civil forfeiture take away your rights without a fight. Call the Tahlequah criminal lawyer at (918) 458-2677, and let’s work together to get your property back.
