Criminal Defense Lawyers

Los angeles Asset Forfeiture lawyers

Asset Forfeiture Lawyers in Los Angeles: Protecting Your Property Rights

You worked hard for your assets – your home, your car, your savings. So having them seized by the government can feel like a punch in the gut. Asset forfeiture laws allow authorities to take property they claim is connected to criminal activity. But what if you’re innocent? What if the charges are flimsy or there’s been a misunderstanding?

You need a tenacious legal team to fight for your rights and prevent injustice. At Spodek Law Group, our Los Angeles asset forfeiture attorneys have decades of experience taking on government overreach. We understand the nuances of forfeiture proceedings and know how to build a powerful defense strategy.

Don’t let the system bully you into surrendering what’s rightfully yours. With our attorneys by your side, we’ll fearlessly protect your interests and assets. Call us at 212-300-5196 for a free consultation.

What is Asset Forfeiture in California?

Asset forfeiture refers to the government’s ability to permanently confiscate property they believe was used in a crime or purchased with illicit funds. It’s a controversial practice that’s ripe for abuse, as innocent people can lose everything based on mere suspicion.

Under California law, authorities can seize:

• Cash
• Vehicles
• Real estate
• Businesses
• Jewelry and other valuables

All they need is probable cause to think the assets are connected to criminal activity like drug trafficking, money laundering, or fraud. The burden of proof is on you to get your property back.

It’s a draconian system that flips due process on its head. Even if charges are never filed or you’re found not guilty, the government can still initiate forfeiture proceedings in civil court. You could end up losing your life savings over something as minor as a small drug possession charge.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

How Does the Asset Forfeiture Process Work in California?

The nightmare begins when law enforcement raids your home or business and seizes anything they deem “suspicious.” Or you could have your bank accounts frozen with no warning.

Once your property is taken, the government has 60 days to officially initiate forfeiture proceedings by:

• Providing notice of the seizure
• Specifying the criminal conduct justifying forfeiture
• Allowing you to file a claim contesting the action

If you don’t file a claim, the government automatically keeps your property. But if you do contest it, the case goes to civil court where the burden is on prosecutors to establish by preponderance of evidence that the assets are linked to a crime.

It’s a rigged system designed to overwhelm you into compliance. Prosecutors have massive resources while you’re left defenseless, potentially bankrupted by legal fees before the case even starts.

That’s why you need elite asset forfeiture defense attorneys like ours to level the playing field. We know all the tricks prosecutors use and won’t let them bully or intimidate you. We fight for a dismissal of charges so you can reclaim your property and move on with your life.

What Property Can Be Seized Through Asset Forfeiture in California?

Virtually any property or asset you own could potentially be targeted for forfeiture, including:

• Cash
• Bank accounts
• Vehicles (cars, boats, planes)
• Real estate (homes, land, buildings)
• Businesses and investments
• Jewelry, art, collectibles
• Electronics (computers, phones)
• Weapons

The scope is terrifyingly broad. Even relatively minor assets like furniture or clothing could be seized if authorities claim they were purchased with illicit funds.

Type of Property and Examples

Authorities will take everything not nailed down if given the chance. They know most people lack the resources to fight back, counting on you to give up rather than endure a lengthy legal battle.

But we never give up on our clients. Our Los Angeles asset forfeiture lawyers have unparalleled tenacity. We’ll exhaust every legal avenue to reclaim your rightful property. Click here to contact us and start fighting back.

Common Myths About Asset Forfeiture in California

There are many misconceptions about asset forfeiture that disarm people from properly defending themselves. Let’s bust some of those myths:

Myth #1: I Have to Be Convicted First

Nope, untrue. Under California law, your property can be seized based on mere probable cause of a crime, before you’re ever charged or convicted. It’s a terrifying reality.

Myth #2: They Can Only Take Property Used in a Crime

Wrong again. Authorities can seize anything they believe was purchased with money from alleged illegal activities, even if the property itself is completely legal.

Myth #3: It’s Just a Civil Procedure, Not Criminal

Don’t be fooled – civil forfeiture proceedings can devastate your life, strip you of your assets, and destroy your business or reputation. It’s just as serious as criminal charges.

Myth #4: The Process Favors The Property Owner

Bahaha – the opposite is true! The entire system is stacked against you from lack of resources to draconian laws depriving you of due process. You’re outmatched without a relentless legal advocate.

Myth #5: I Can Just Get My Property Back Later

Good luck with that. Once the government seizes your assets, getting them back is like pulling teeth. The onus is on you to prove your innocence in court – an often impossible feat without elite counsel.

Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security. Hire the best asset forfeiture lawyers from the start so you can fight back and keep what’s yours. Click here to get started with Spodek Law Group.

Why Hire Spodek Law Group for Asset Forfeiture Cases?

When your life savings and property are on the line, you can’t afford to hire just any law firm. You need heavy hitters with specialized expertise taking on the government’s unlimited resources.

At Spodek Law Group, our Los Angeles asset forfeiture attorneys have:

• ✨ Decades of combined experience in state and federal asset forfeiture cases
• ✨ Comprehensive understanding of forfeiture laws and procedures
• ✨ Proven courtroom prowess taking on government overreach
• ✨ Uncompromising commitment to protecting your rights and assets
• ✨ Reputation as one of the nation’s premier asset forfeiture defense firms

We never back down from a fight. Our attorneys are relentless in dismantling the government’s case, poking holes in their evidence, and exposing injustice.

No dirty trick or intimidation tactic will deter us. We’ve seen it all and know how to counter every move. When you hire us, you level the playing field against an overreaching system.

More importantly, we treat every client like family. Your financial security and future is our personal mission. We empathize with the fear and uncertainty you’re facing.