Criminal Defense Lawyers

Denver International Airport Money Cash Seizure Lawyers

Denver International Airport Money and Cash Seizure Lawyers: Your Guide to Getting Your Funds Returned

Traveling through Denver International Airport (DIA) with a large amount of cash or other monetary instruments can lead to serious legal issues. The airport has its own police force that aggressively enforces laws related to money laundering, drug trafficking, and undeclared currency. If you have had cash seized by DIA police or federal agents like the DEA, TSA, or CBP, don’t panic. There are experienced Denver airport cash seizure lawyers who can help you get your money back.This article provides a comprehensive guide on DIA currency seizures, your legal rights, and how a skilled attorney can assist in recovering your funds.

Overview of Cash Seizures at Denver International Airport

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving over 69 million passengers in 2019. With so much traffic, DIA police and federal agents are on high alert for illegal activity like money laundering and drug trafficking. Carrying large sums of cash is not itself illegal, but it may raise suspicions.Here are some common reasons cash may be seized at DIA:

• Failing to declare currency over $10,000 when traveling internationally or domestically. This requirement applies even if you have a layover at DIA between flights.
• Suspected involvement in criminal activity like drug trafficking or money laundering. Agents look for “suspicious” behaviors like buying one-way tickets, nervousness, or inconsistencies in your story.
• Civil asset forfeiture laws that allow seizure of cash or property without charging you with a crime. The burden of proof is lower than for criminal charges.

Cash seizures commonly occur at security checkpoints, the boarding gate, baggage claim, rental car facilities, or even in the airport parking lots. Both local DIA police and federal agencies like the DEA, CBP, TSA, and ICE conduct seizures.The amount taken ranges from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars or more. Many travelers make the mistake of thinking there is no recourse, when in fact an experienced lawyer can often get all or most of the money returned.

Overview of Relevant Laws and Regulations

• Title 31 U.S. Code § 5316 – Requires declaration of currency or monetary instruments over $10,000 on an international flight, even if just a layover.
• FinCEN Form 105 – Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments. Must be completed if carrying over $10,000 internationally.
• CMIR Form 4790 – Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments. Required by U.S. Customs for currency over $10,000.
• Title 18 U.S. Code § 983 – Federal civil asset forfeiture procedures. Governs processes for seizing property related to criminal activity.
• 4th Amendment – Protects against unreasonable search and seizure. Violations can invalidate a cash seizure.

Consult an attorney to determine if any laws or regulations were improperly applied in your case. Their expertise interpreting these rules is key to overturning an unlawful seizure.

DIA and Federal Agencies Involved in Cash Seizures

Several different law enforcement authorities conduct seizures at Denver International Airport:

• DIA Police – Has jurisdiction to enforce city and airport regulations, conduct investigations, and make seizures.
• DEA – Federal Drug Enforcement Administration agents seize cash related to narcotics trafficking.
• CBP – U.S. Customs and Border Protection seizes undeclared currency and conducts border enforcement.
• TSA – Transportation Security Administration agents seize cash at security checkpoints.
• ICE – Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations.
• FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation agents.
• U.S. Secret Service – Seizes cash in cases related to financial crimes.

Having an attorney experienced with these specific agencies is key, as each has their own protocols and regulations. Negotiating with the correct authorities is crucial to getting the seizure overturned.

DIA Airport Cash Seizure FAQs

Can DIA police legally seize my cash?Yes, DIA police have broad authority to seize currency or property at the airport if they suspect it is tied to illegal activity like drug trafficking, money laundering, or terrorism. However, the seizure may still be contested.Do I have to be arrested or charged with a crime for my cash to be seized?No, you do not need to be arrested or charged with anything for DIA police or federal agents to seize your currency. Many seizures occur administratively without any criminal charges.What if I’m innocent and the cash is from a legitimate source?Unfortunately, innocent travelers do get caught up in airport cash seizures. An experienced attorney can help prove the lawful origin of the funds and get them returned to you. Don’t let unlawful seizures go unchallenged.Can I get my money back after a DIA cash seizure?Yes, an experienced attorney can often successfully recover all or most of the seized cash, even if you are never charged criminally. Negotiating with police, filing claims, and going to court if needed can result in return of the funds.How much does a DIA airport cash seizure lawyer cost?Most attorneys take airport cash seizure cases on a contingent fee basis, meaning no upfront payment is required. If no cash is recovered, you owe nothing. Fees come out of funds successfully recovered.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

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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

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2024-03-12

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2024-02-28

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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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Working with an Airport Cash Seizure Attorney

Having an experienced attorney in your corner levels the playing field after a traumatic cash seizure experience. A knowledgeable lawyer will:

• Review the details of your case and advise you of your rights and options.
• File a timely claim to contest the seizure and get the administrative process started.
• Contact the seizing agency (DIA police, DEA, CBP etc.) to begin negotiations.
• Demand return of the full amount and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
• Gather evidence and build a defense showing the lawful source/purpose of the funds.
• Take the case to court if needed and continue contesting the forfeiture.
• Keep pushing the case forward to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Don’t let DIA police or federal agents keep your hard-earned cash without a fight. The legal system is complex, but an experienced attorney levels the playing field. With persistent negotiation and litigation, they can often get all or most of your seized money returned.

Finding the Right Denver Airport Cash Seizure Lawyer

If you had cash seized at DIA, it’s critical to find the right legal help quickly, as deadlines to contest the seizure can be as little as 30 days. Look for a Denver attorney with specific expertise in the following areas:

• Civil asset forfeiture – Contesting administrative seizures of cash and property.
• 4th Amendment violations – Unlawful search and seizure defenses.
• DEA, TSA, CBP protocols – Experience dealing with federal agencies at airports.
• Negotiation skills – Successfully negotiating return of seized currency.
• Aviation law knowledge – Understanding airport regulations and processes.
• Litigation experience – Willingness to take cases to court if needed.
• Contingency fees – Fees based on percentage of recovered cash, not hourly.

Don’t let DIA or federal agents permanently keep your hard-earned money. An experienced Denver airport cash seizure attorney can protect your rights and fight to get your seized currency returned.

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