Asset Forfeiture Lawyer in Knox County

Tennessee Attorney for Recovering Seized Assets

You may have seen examples of asset seizures on television or in the movies, so it might not be a surprise to learn that law enforcement can seize property or assets that were acquired through illicit means. However, did you know that you could lose your property forever even if you are never convicted of a crime?

At the law firm of Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we realize that state and federal laws allow the seizure of property that was used to commit a crime or acquired with "dirty money," but we know that law enforcement agencies often get too ambitious. When this happens, our team will help you protect your constitutional rights and get your property back as soon as possible.

Trusted Asset Recovery Counsel in Knoxville

Asset seizures are common in large-scale drug cases, but the police can also seize your car if you are arrested for DUI or driving on a revoked license. While asset forfeiture cases are related to criminal cases, they are handled in administrative court instead of criminal court. This means that there are different rules and procedures, as well as a different burden of proof. To secure a conviction in criminal court, prosecutors must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In order for property to be forfeited after a seizure, the court must only find that the property was connected to a crime by a preponderance of the evidence—a much lower standard than the one used in criminal court. It is also important to note that law enforcement agencies in Tennessee are allowed to keep all of the proceeds related to forfeited assets, which means that seizing property can be a profitable venture.

Attorney Jeffrey Coller has the experience and background to handle asset forfeiture cases. He and his team fully understand the seizure and forfeiture process and are ready to help you claim and recover your property. If your property has been seized by law enforcement, it is important to call an attorney right away so that you do not miss your chance to get your property back.

Asset Seizure and Forfeiture in Tennessee

When law enforcement seizes property believed to be connected to a crime, the police must give the person in possession of the property a Notice of Seizure and Forfeiture Form. The police must then ask a judge for a Forfeiture Warrant based on probable cause. If the judge issues the Forfeiture Warrant, the state must notify anyone who might have an interest in the seized property. In order to get the property returned, the property owner must file a petition to return the property within 30 days of the notice from the state. The petition must include anticipated court costs (or cost bond) or the claim may be dismissed. The case will then be scheduled for a hearing to determine what will happen to the property.

The process of recovering seized assets can be complex and overwhelming, and a single mistake could lead to the permanent forfeiture of your property. If you are also facing criminal charges related to the case, things can be even more complicated. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that a person cannot be "deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law." At our firm, we are committed to helping you protect your constitutional rights, as well as your rights to your property. We will work hard to get your assets returned to you quickly and without unnecessary complications.

Contact Our Knoxville Asset Forfeiture Lawyers

To learn more about our firm and how we can help you recover seized assets before they are forfeited, contact our office. Call 865-281-1000 for a free consultation and case review. We represent clients in Knoxville, Mascot, Farragut, Campbell County, Union County, Blount County, and Knox County.