Image for seizure laws

seizure laws

Seizure laws allow law enforcement to take possession of property believed to be connected to illegal activities, such as drug trafficking or money laundering. There are two main types: civil forfeiture, where property can be seized without a criminal charge, and criminal forfeiture, which occurs after a conviction. To protect property owners, courts often require a legal process where the owner can contest the seizure. These laws aim to disrupt criminal enterprises but have raised concerns about potential abuse and the impact on innocent individuals, leading to ongoing debates about reform and accountability in the system.