Civil forfeiture is the seizure of cash or property from those suspected and/or convicted of criminal activity. Anything is up for grabs, but what often comes to mind is real estate, cars, money or other items believed to be obtained through criminal enterprise.
One man even had his luxury footwear collection seized after being sentenced to six years in prison for firing a gun at a car. 55 pairs with brand names like Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Louis Vuitton were part of the bounty seized by law enforcement hoping to take the incentive out of committing crimes.
Wisconsin Forfeiture Reform
In 2018, the Wisconsin governor signed into law a forfeiture reform bill that requires law enforcement officials to obtain a criminal conviction before permanently taking a defendants cash or property. Previously, police were authorized to seize and keep cash, real estate and other property of those merely suspected of criminal activity, regardless of whether a defendant was ultimately convicted. Although Wisconsin has joined 15 other states in limiting permanent seizure to those convicted, in most states and at the federal level, authorities are still allowed to keep what they seize from suspects regardless of whether a person is convicted or a charge is filed.
Contact Our Waukesha Criminal Defense & Property Forfeiture Lawyers for Help
If you are being investigated, or have been charged with a crime, the consequences can be dire, including property and cash forfeiture. Before talking with the police or anyone, it is very important to seek the help of an experienced Wisconsin criminal defense lawyer for advise as soon as possible. Contact the Wisconsin Criminal Defense Law Offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for immediate assistance today at 262-542-3900.
