The Greenwald Law FirmHaving your money, vehicle, firearms, electronics, or other property seized by law enforcement can be frustrating and financially devastating. In many cases, property is taken based on allegations that it was connected to criminal activity—even when the owner has not been convicted of a crime. Florida’s civil asset forfeiture laws allow government agencies to seek permanent ownership of seized property, but they must follow strict legal procedures and meet specific legal standards.
Attorney Brian F. Greenwald represents individuals and families throughout Seminole County, Orange County, and surrounding Central Florida communities in civil asset forfeiture matters. The Greenwald Law Firm works to challenge unlawful seizures, protect property rights, and pursue the return of assets whenever possible.
Confidential Case Review When the Government Takes Your Property, We Fight BackFlorida’s Civil Asset Forfeiture Act
Florida law places limitations on when law enforcement can permanently keep seized property. Generally, the government must demonstrate a connection between the property and criminal activity and comply with procedural requirements established under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act.
Recent reforms have strengthened protections for property owners and increased the burden on law enforcement agencies seeking forfeiture. However, property can still be seized and held for extended periods unless the owner takes prompt legal action.
(407) 807-0840
Every Case Deserves a Thorough Defense Review
What Is Civil Asset Forfeiture?
Civil asset forfeiture is a legal process that allows law enforcement agencies to seize property they believe was used in, obtained through, or connected to criminal activity. Unlike a criminal case, the forfeiture action is generally filed against the property itself rather than the owner.
Common assets subject to forfeiture include:
- Cash
- Vehicles
- Boats
- Jewelry
- Electronics
- Business equipment
- Real estate
Defenses to Civil Asset Forfeiture
Because these proceedings are civil in nature, property owners often face a separate legal battle even while defending themselves against criminal allegations.
The government must establish a sufficient connection between the property and the alleged criminal conduct. Mere suspicion is often not enough to justify permanent forfeiture.
Property owners may be able to show they had no knowledge of, participation in, or consent to the alleged criminal activity connected to the property.
If law enforcement violated constitutional protections during the investigation or seizure, the forfeiture action may be challenged.
Asset forfeiture cases are governed by strict deadlines and procedural requirements. Failure to comply with those requirements can sometimes result in the return of seized property.
Common Situations That Lead to Asset Seizure
Get Immediate Legal GuidanceLaw enforcement agencies frequently pursue forfeiture actions involving allegations of:
- Drug trafficking
- Drug possession with intent to sell
- Money laundering
- Organized fraud
- Racketeering
- Vehicle use during criminal activity
- Proceeds of illegal transactions
Even if criminal charges are reduced, dismissed, or never filed, forfeiture proceedings may still continue.
Why Early Action Matters
Time-Sensitive Deadlines
Civil asset forfeiture cases are governed by strict procedural deadlines. Waiting too long to challenge a seizure can limit your legal options and make it more difficult to recover your property. Taking action quickly allows your attorney to preserve important rights and ensure the government is held to the requirements of Florida law.
Protecting Your Property and Financial Stability
Seized assets often include vehicles, cash, business equipment, or other property that individuals rely on every day. Extended delays can create financial hardship and disrupt work, transportation, and family responsibilities. Prompt legal representation provides the best opportunity to seek the return of property as quickly as possible while protecting your long-term interests.
Preserving Critical Evidence
The sooner an attorney becomes involved, the sooner they can begin reviewing police reports, seizure records, witness statements, and other evidence related to the case. Early intervention can help identify weaknesses in the government’s claims, uncover procedural errors, and build a stronger challenge to the forfeiture.
Committed To Your Defense.Why Experienced Legal Representation Matters
The outcome of a forfeiture case often depends on a detailed analysis of the facts, the underlying criminal investigation, and the procedures followed by law enforcement. Attorney Brian F. Greenwald brings more than two decades of courtroom experience to every case and understands how criminal investigations and forfeiture proceedings intersect.
Protect Your Future Now
When you hire The Greenwald Law Firm, you receive:
- Direct communication with your attorney
- Thorough review of the seizure and investigation
- Strategic defense tailored to your circumstances
- Trial experience when litigation becomes necessary
- Representation focused on protecting your property rights
See what our Clients are Saying…
FAQ’sWhat You Need to Know After an Assault Arrest in Florida
A violation of probation allegation can be overwhelming, especially when your freedom is at immediate risk and the possibility of jail or prison time suddenly becomes a reality. Many individuals accused of violating probation have urgent questions about the allegations against them, the potential consequences, and what can be done to avoid revocation of probation. At The Greenwald Law Firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty that often accompany a violation of probation proceeding, which is why we make ourselves available 24/7 to provide guidance when you need it most. Brian Greenwald, Esq. represents clients throughout Seminole County and Orange County and is committed to protecting their rights at every stage of the process. The frequently asked questions below address many of the common concerns individuals have when facing a violation of probation allegation in Florida.
Still have some questions?Not automatically. The government must still establish legal grounds for forfeiture and comply with Florida’s asset forfeiture laws. In many situations, property owners can challenge the seizure and seek the return of their assets.
Law enforcement may seek forfeiture of cash, vehicles, boats, firearms, electronics, real estate, and other property allegedly connected to criminal activity.
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of property involved, and whether the matter is resolved through negotiation or litigation.
Possibly. Many forfeiture cases involve vehicles allegedly used during criminal activity. Depending on the circumstances, ownership history, and available defenses, the vehicle may be recoverable.
Asset forfeiture proceedings involve strict procedural rules and often overlap with criminal investigations. Having experienced legal representation like Attorney Brian F. Greenwald can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering seized property.
Most civil asset forfeiture actions in Florida are governed by the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act, found primarily in Sections 932.701–932.7062, Florida Statutes. These laws establish the procedures law enforcement agencies must follow when seeking forfeiture of property allegedly connected to criminal activity.