Criminal Defense Lawyers

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Money Cash Seizure Lawyers

Getting Your Money Back: A Guide to Fighting Cash Seizures at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

Having cash seized by federal agents at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport can be scary, stressful, and confusing. One minute you’re going through security or customs, the next your life savings are gone. But there is hope – with the right lawyer by your side, many people are able to recover most or all of their seized money.This article will walk you through everything you need to know, including:

• Why cash seizures happen at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
• The laws allowing agents to take your money
• Finding a lawyer to fight for your rights
• The process for challenging the seizure
• Negotiating with the seizing agency
• Taking your case to court if needed
• And more…

Let’s get started.

Why Cash Seizures Happen at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

Federal agents at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport have broad authority to seize cash and monetary instruments if they suspect it is:

• Connected to illegal activity like drug trafficking or money laundering
• Being smuggled out of the U.S. without proper declaration
• Structured to avoid reporting requirements
• Going to support terrorism or other criminal activity

This power comes from federal laws like the Bank Secrecy Act and USA PATRIOT Act, as well as Department of Homeland Security policies. Agents with agencies like Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) routinely patrol the airport looking for suspicious travelers or luggage.Often the seizure happens quickly, without warning. You may be pulled aside for additional screening, then have cash taken from your bag or person. Some reasons it could occur:

• You’re carrying over $10,000 cash internationally without declaring it
• A drug-sniffing dog alerted agents to your bag or cash
• You appear nervous or can’t clearly explain where the money came from
• Agents think you are deliberately keeping cash amounts under $10,000 to avoid reporting requirements

No matter the reason, it’s a scary situation. But an experienced lawyer can help you get your money back.

Finding an Attorney to Fight for Your Rights

If your cash was seized at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, don’t delay – contact a lawyer immediately. Look for an attorney experienced in federal asset forfeiture and cash seizure cases.Key things a qualified lawyer will do:

• Review the details of your case and help determine the best course of action
• Send notice to the seizing agency that you are contesting the seizure
• Request court action to make the agency file a forfeiture complaint
• Negotiate aggressively with prosecutors for return of the full amount
• Fight in court if negotiations are unsuccessful

It is especially important to hire a lawyer quickly because strict deadlines apply if you want to challenge the seizure. Don’t try to handle this on your own. An experienced attorney knows the system and how to build the strongest case.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

The Process for Challenging the Seizure

With an attorney’s help, the process for challenging a cash seizure at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport usually includes:1. Sending Written NoticeYour lawyer will immediately send notice to the seizing agency (CBP, DEA, etc) that you are contesting forfeiture of the seized cash. This preserves your rights.2. Requesting Court ActionNext, your attorney will file a claim demanding judicial action in U.S. District Court. This forces the seizing agency to either return the cash or file a civil forfeiture complaint against it within 90 days.3. Reviewing DiscoveryDuring this stage, your lawyer can review evidence through discovery. This includes financial records, airport surveillance footage, and information on how agents handled the seizure. Evidence can help prove the lawful source of the cash.4. Negotiating with ProsecutorsMany cash seizure cases resolve through settlement negotiations between your lawyer and federal prosecutors. The goal is getting back as much of the seized money as possible.5. Going to Court if NeededIf prosecutors won’t settle, your attorney can aggressively litigate the forfeiture action in court. Before a federal judge, the government has the burden of proving the cash is subject to forfeiture. With an experienced lawyer, many people prevail at trial.The process can take several months to over a year depending on the complexity of your case. Throughout, an attorney knowledgeable in forfeiture law can protect your rights and work toward the best resolution.

Negotiating with the Seizing Agency

Most cash seizure cases at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport end up settling through negotiations between the property owner’s lawyer and federal prosecutors.An experienced attorney will aggressively negotiate for return of the full cash amount. Unlike criminal plea bargains, you have strong negotiating power in civil forfeiture cases. Some key points your lawyer can leverage:

• The government has the burden of proving the cash is connected to criminal activity – is their evidence weak?
• Are there any procedural problems with how the seizure was handled?
• Can you show the cash comes from 100% legal sources like savings, business income, or gifts?
• Does forfeiture of the entire amount violate Constitutional protections against excessive fines?

Skilled cash seizure lawyers know how to craft persuasive arguments and negotiate strategically with prosecutors. Many are able to convince the government to give back most or all of the seized cash through settlements.

Taking Your Case to Court

If prosecutors refuse reasonable settlement offers, the next step is taking the forfeiture case to court. Your lawyer will aggressively litigate before a federal judge to defeat the government’s claims.Some key litigation strategies an experienced attorney can use:

• File a motion to dismiss the complaint if the government’s allegations are vague or lack sufficient evidence of wrongdoing
• Argue the forfeiture violates Constitutional rights like due process or protection against excessive fines
• Present evidence about the lawful source of the cash, like bank statements, paystubs, or sworn statements
• Challenge if agents followed proper procedures during the seizure, like counting the cash correctly

The government has the burden of proof in civil forfeiture cases. With an experienced litigator making strong legal and factual arguments on your behalf, many people prevail in getting their money back through litigation.

Why You Should Never Delay Getting a Lawyer

Time is of the essence when fighting cash seizures at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Federal agencies move quickly to forfeit seized assets.You have just a short window after receiving a Notice of Seizure to contest it. And strict deadlines apply once court proceedings begin. That’s why it’s critical to contact a lawyer immediately.An experienced attorney also knows how to quickly gather evidence and build the strongest case possible. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of recovering your seized cash.Don’t let the government profit from your hard-earned money. Call an experienced cash seizure lawyer right away if federal agents seize your cash at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. With an attorney fighting aggressively on your behalf, you can get your savings returned.

Additional Resources:

• ACLU Guide to Fighting Civil Asset Forfeiture
• Find a Lawyer – American Bar Association
• Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section, U.S. Department of Justice