Civil Forfeiture Lawyer in NJ & PA – Fight to Get Your Property Back

Civil forfeiture allows the government to seize cash, vehicles, homes, and other property based on suspicions of criminal activity—often without filing criminal charges. Many people lose their assets simply because they do not understand the complex legal process required to reclaim them. If your property has been seized in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, Ratliff Jackson LLP is ready to fight aggressively for its return.

Our civil forfeiture attorneys help clients challenge wrongful seizures, prove legitimate ownership, and recover property taken by law enforcement. Whether your cash was confiscated during a traffic stop or your business assets were frozen in a federal investigation, we can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Civil Forfeiture Cases

Many individuals mistakenly believe that their property will be returned if they can prove they did nothing wrong. Unfortunately, civil asset forfeiture laws favor the government, making it difficult to reclaim seized assets without an experienced civil forfeiture lawyer.

Here is why legal representation is critical:

• Strict Deadlines Apply – There is a limited time to file a claim contesting the seizure before the government permanently takes ownership of the property.
• The Burden of Proof is on You – Unlike in criminal cases, the property owner must prove that the assets were not connected to illegal activity.
• Government Agencies Have Aggressive Legal Teams – Law enforcement agencies rely on forfeiture funds for revenue and will fight to keep the assets.
• Mistakes Can Be Costly – A simple filing error or failure to meet procedural deadlines can result in permanent loss of property.

Ratliff Jackson LLP understands the civil asset forfeiture process in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and federal courts. Our attorneys work quickly to file necessary claims, gather evidence of lawful ownership, and fight back against unfair government overreach.

Common Civil Forfeiture Cases We Handle

Our civil forfeiture defense lawyers have successfully helped clients recover a wide range of seized assets. Common cases include:

• Cash Seized at Airports or Traffic Stops – Law enforcement often confiscates large sums of cash under the assumption that it is connected to drug trafficking or other criminal activity, even if no charges are filed.
• Forfeiture of Homes and Real Estate – Properties may be seized if the government alleges they were purchased with illicit funds or used for criminal activity.
• Vehicles, Boats, and Luxury Items Taken by Law Enforcement – The police can seize cars, boats, and high-value assets based on suspicion alone, leaving owners with little recourse unless they take legal action.
• Business Asset Seizures – Businesses accused of financial crimes, fraud, or regulatory violations may face forfeiture of bank accounts, inventory, and equipment.
• Federal Civil Forfeiture Cases – Cases involving agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and IRS, which frequently seize assets under broad federal laws.

Potential Remedies – How We Can Help You Get Your Property Back

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we use strategic legal tactics to help clients recover their seized assets. Depending on the circumstances of the case, we may:

• File a Formal Claim for Return of Property – Submitting the necessary legal documentation proving ownership of the seized assets.
• Challenge the Legality of the Seizure – If law enforcement violated constitutional rights, such as conducting an unlawful search and seizure, we can seek to have the forfeiture case dismissed.
• Prove a Legitimate Source of Income – Presenting strong evidence demonstrating that the cash or assets were lawfully obtained.
• Negotiate a Settlement or Property Return Agreement – In some cases, working with prosecutors to secure the release of wrongfully seized property.

Who We Help – Protecting Innocent Property Owners

Civil forfeiture laws unfairly impact individuals who are never charged with a crime. Our civil asset forfeiture attorneys represent:

• Business owners whose accounts or inventory have been seized.
• Drivers whose cash or vehicles were confiscated during a traffic stop.
• Families whose homes have been targeted for forfeiture.
• Travelers whose cash was taken at airports due to suspicion of money laundering.
• Individuals who have been wrongfully accused of drug-related financial crimes.

Regardless of the circumstances, our firm fights to ensure that property is returned as quickly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get my property back if no criminal charges were filed?

Yes. In many civil forfeiture cases, no criminal charges are ever filed. Property owners still have the right to challenge the seizure and demand the return of their assets. However, strict deadlines apply, so it is critical to act quickly.

How long does it take to fight a civil forfeiture case?

The timeline varies depending on whether the case is handled at the state or federal level. Some cases are resolved within weeks, while others take months or even years. Our firm works diligently to recover property as soon as possible.

What happens if I do not challenge the forfeiture?

If no legal action is taken, the government will take permanent ownership of the property. Once the deadline to file a claim passes, recovering the assets becomes nearly impossible.

Can I afford a civil forfeiture lawyer?

Ratliff Jackson LLP offers affordable legal representation for civil forfeiture cases and provides clear, upfront pricing. Contact us for a consultation to discuss available options.

Government Took Your Property? We Fight to Get It Back!

If property has been seized by law enforcement, taking immediate action is crucial. The longer an owner waits, the harder it becomes to recover the assets.

Ratliff Jackson LLP fights aggressively for individuals and businesses facing wrongful civil forfeiture in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and federal courts. Our attorneys understand the tactics used by law enforcement and have a proven track record of successfully reclaiming seized property.

Contact us today to discuss the case and start the process of getting the property back.