First of all, what is an airport currency seizure? Created to fight against the drug trade, a currency seizure is performed by authorities who detect and have reason to suspect illegal behavior. For example, sulk cash smuggling, narcotics trafficking, etc. are some of the top causes of an airport seizure.
But what about the cases who had their money seized without a valid cause? That’s where the Abady Law Firm comes in. If you or someone you know has been through an unlawful airport currency seizure, give us a call at (800) 549-5099. We cover every case, from U.S. Customs to Drug Enforcement.
US Customs Cases
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) have the authority to seize goods for violations of the Customs laws or other laws enforced. If Customs finds a violation, they have the right to seize it and transfer it from the Centralized Examination Station to a bonded warehouse.
In most cases, the defendant is given the following options:
- File a petition with customs within 30 days of the issuance date on the seizure notice
- File an offer in compromise
- Abandon the property
- Take the matter directly for court action (you need to fill out the seized asset claim form and post a cost bond equal to 10% of the value of the seized merchandise, or $5,000, whichever is lower); or
- Begin administrative proceedings to forfeit the property.
Our firm helps you in the filing of administrative petitions and getting your property released from Customs as soon as possible.
Homeland Security Investigation Cases
A significant goal of the Department of Homeland Security is to stop and prevent human trafficking. If there is a reasonable belief that there is a threat of human trafficking, they can seize cash from suspects to help prevent illegal purchases and other acts.
“Homeland Security Investigations will continue to work diligently to stop human trafficking that can surge around large events.”
Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen
Although this can prevent harm to many men, women, children, these seizures are often done to the innocent. Let us help you get your money back promptly.
Drug Enforcement Cases
To combat drug abuse in America, the Drug Enforcement Administration can perform airport currency seizures on people who are suspicious of smuggling drugs, selling drugs, or acting as an illegal medical professional. However, if you have been a victim of a seizure without cause, the Abady Law Firm will help you make the most of your options:
- Petition the DEA for the return of your property
- File a valid claim with the DEA to challenge the seizure
Get Help With Your Airport Currency Seizure Case
Ready to fight for your seized money back? Give the Abady Law Firm experts a call at (800) 549-5099 to get the guidance you need to conquer this battle the right way. We’ve had years of experience helping clients reverse their currency seizure and get back on track.
