Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport Money Cash Seizure Lawyers
Having your cash seized by law enforcement at Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport can be scary. But don't worry - there are experienced lawyers who can help you get your money back. This article explains what to do if your cash is taken at the airport.
Why Cash is Seized at Airports
There are a few main reasons cash may be seized at the Fort Lauderdale airport:
- Suspicion of drug trafficking or money laundering
- Failure to declare currency over $10,000 when leaving or entering the U.S.
- Suspected involvement in terrorist financing
Often, agents seize cash without even filing criminal charges. The legal standard for civil asset forfeiture is much lower than for a criminal conviction. So even if you've done nothing illegal, getting your money back can be an uphill battle.
Who Can Seize Money at the Airport?
Can law enforcement seize your money when flying with cash?
Different law enforcement agencies operate at airports and can potentially seize cash:
- TSA - May flag large amounts of cash at security checkpoints
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) - Enforces currency reporting laws
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) - Investigates suspected drug money
- Local police or sheriff's departments - Work with federal agencies on drug and anti-terrorism enforcement
Often multiple agencies cooperate on an airport cash seizure. A local officer may flag suspicious cash, then hand the case over to federal agents.
Will TSA seize cash?
Different law enforcement agencies operate at airports and can potentially seize cash:
- TSA - May flag large amounts of cash at security checkpoints
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) - Enforces currency reporting laws
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) - Investigates suspected drug money
- Local police or sheriff's departments - Work with federal agencies on drug and anti-terrorism enforcement
Often multiple agencies cooperate on an airport cash seizure. A local officer may flag suspicious cash, then hand the case over to federal agents.
Getting Legal Help to Fight the Seizure
How to get seized money back from the airport?
Trying to negotiate on your own with federal agents to get seized money back rarely works. The laws around asset forfeiture are complex. An experienced lawyer is almost essential.
As soon as your cash is seized, contact a lawyer. Timing is critical, because strict deadlines apply for contesting the seizure. A lawyer can immediately file a claim demanding the cash be returned.
Specifically, a lawyer can assist by:
- Filing a timely federal court claim to contest the seizure
- Communicating with prosecutors and negotiating return of funds
- Building a defense by showing the legitimate source of the cash
- Navigating court processes to defeat the forfeiture case
Having legal expertise in your corner levels the playing field and makes getting seized cash back much more likely.
Proving the Lawful Source of Your Cash
A key part of overturning a seizure is being able to show where the cash came from and why you had it. Your lawyer will ask to see any documentation you have proving the money's origins, such as:
- Bank statements showing withdrawals
- Real estate closing documents
- Business ownership and income records
- Casino receipts
- Pay stubs and tax returns
- Loan documents
- Inheritance records
Also be prepared to thoroughly explain where the cash came from, why you had it, and what you planned to use it for. Honesty is key during this process.
Going to Court Over the Seizure
If federal prosecutors reject your claim to get the cash back, you may need to escalate to filing a civil asset forfeiture lawsuit. Your lawyer will argue the seizure violated your Constitutional rights in various ways, such as:
- Violation of 4th Amendment protections against unreasonable search/seizure
- Violation of 5th Amendment right to due process
- Violation of 8th Amendment ban on excessive fines
Building a strong legal case requires expertise in asset forfeiture law. But many people are able to recover their seized cash through aggressive litigation tactics. Don't assume it's hopeless if your initial claim is denied.
You Can Beat Unjust Airport Cash Seizures
Having cash seized unfairly at the airport is frustrating. But with an experienced lawyer negotiating firmly on your behalf, you can often get most or all of your money back.
Act quickly to find a lawyer so you don't miss legal deadlines. Be ready to document the lawful source of your cash. And don't back down if your case ends up going to court. With smart legal help, you can successfully fight back against unjustified airport cash seizures.
For more help understanding the cash seizure process and finding a lawyer, check out these additional resources:
