State & Federal Forfeiture

Chicago Forfeiture Lawyers

Federal and State laws empower the government to seize money and property related to the commission of crimes. However, unless you take timely action you may lose your rights to your property, even if the charge or charges are ultimately dismissed.

Our firm, The Law Firm of Pissetzky & Berliner, P.C., represents clients in Federal and State forfeiture matters. We understand all aspects of the legal process of forfeiture, and how to best insure the return of seized property to its rightful owner.

If your property has been seized by the government pursuant to a criminal arrest, we may be able to restore it to you. Call us at 312-566-9900 to arrange for a free consultation.

Strict Deadlines for Forfeiture Claims

There are strict time limits for filing a claim for forfeited property or money. You must file a claim within 45 days of receiving notice. The forfeiture action of the government proceeds on a track separate to that for the criminal charges. You must take quick action to preserve your right to claim property.

An attorney at our firm can discuss the merits of your claim and explain the legal process. As experienced criminal defense attorneys focusing on Federal drug crimes and Illinois felonies, we can also discuss how we may be able to defend you against the criminal charge as well.

Effective Forfeiture Defense

Our firm has successfully represented clients in numerous forfeiture and criminal cases. We will examine every aspect of both the arrest and the seizure of property in order to develop a successful defense strategy. Developing a clear paper trial that clearly separates seized cash from the alleged criminal activity for example, may be sufficient to overcome the forfeiture. In other cases, we may be able to demonstrate that the arrest was improper, or obtain a dismissal of the criminal charges on Fourth Amendment grounds. We will act to achieve a restoration of property as quickly as possible. However, sometimes a forfeiture defense can become a lengthy and involved process.

Whatever the specifics of your case, our lawyers will thoroughly investigate and analyze the circumstances that led to the arrest and seizure of the property. Then we will aggressively seek to reverse the action, and restore the property to its rightful owner.

For a free consultation with a lawyer at The Law Firm of Pissetzky & Berliner, P.C., call 312-566-9900 or contact us online.