USPIS Cash Seizure by Mail
When the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) seizes cash while it is being mailed, it can create frustration and confusion during an already challenging time.
Federal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. § 983, 21 U.S.C. § 881, and 19 U.S.C. §§ 1602–1619, empower federal agencies to confiscate assets that they suspect are linked to illegal activities, even in cases where the individual is not facing criminal charges.
If you’ve received a notice of seizure, it’s crucial to act quickly, as your right to challenge the seizure typically expires within 30 to 35 days.
This is not a process you should navigate on your own. Reach out to our USPIS cash seizure attorney at San Diego Defenders—Forfeiture Law Firm for a complimentary, confidential consultation at (619) 258-8888.
We provide flexible payment plans and contingency fees where you do not pay until we achieve a successful outcome.
During our consultation, our USPIS cash seizure attorney will outline your options and explain how we can assist you through this process of fighting for your property. ¡Se habla Español!
Why USPIS Seizes Mailed Cash
The USPIS collaborates with various federal agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and U.S. Attorney’s Offices, to intercept cash suspected of being involved in criminal activity.
Certain indicators, such as large cash amounts, anonymous labeling, or express mail services, can trigger scrutiny.
When a package is detained for inspection and cash is discovered, the authorities have the power to seize it pending potential forfeiture.
Often, the cash’s intended purpose is entirely legitimate, and USPIS cannot prove the crime.
For instance, mailing money to purchase a car or to loan money to a friend is not illegal.
Unfortunately, individuals frequently find their legally obtained funds confiscated merely due to the delivery method or receipt, despite it being legal to send cash through the mail.
Navigating the Notice of Seizure and Forfeiture Process
Upon seizure, you will receive a Notice of Seizure of Property and Initiation of Administrative Forfeiture Proceedings letter, which initiates a civil forfeiture process under federal law.
This important document outlines how the government may seize and seek to retain your confiscated cash or other property without filing criminal charges.
Under 21 U.S.C. § 881, the government is entitled to forfeit property linked to suspected narcotics transactions or other unlawful activities. However, virtually all currency in circulation has touched enough drugs to trigger a canine alert.
Still, competent legal action can counter this. In civil forfeiture cases, if you submit a timely and appropriate claim, the government must demonstrate the connection between your funds and the alleged criminal activity.
Responses to the Notice must be physically delivered to the seizing agency by 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time within 35 days of receiving the notice.
Selecting the appropriate course of action is vital, and it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable forfeiture attorney immediately upon receipt of the notice.
Delays could result in your property being forfeited without a hearing due to administrative errors. It is not enough to simply mail your documents on the 35-day deadline.
Call our USPIS cash seizure attorney at (619) 258-8888, and our team will provide you with a free, confidential consultation to decide the best course of action according to the details of your case.
Successful Case Result: Recovery of $20,900 After USPIS Seizure
Recently, our firm assisted a small business owner in reclaiming $20,900 in cash that USPIS had seized under suspicion of illegal activity.
While this amount may not seem significant to some, it represented a substantial financial lifeline for our client.
A business partner sent the cash via mail to purchase additional vehicles for the client’s car rental business on Turo, where cash payments are common and legal in certain private sales.
Despite the legality of the transaction and the method of sending the cash through mail, federal authorities intercepted the package.
Following the seizure, the government issued a Notice of Seizure of Property and Initiation of Administrative Forfeiture Proceedings, commencing civil forfeiture.
This action by USPIS was permissible, even without criminal charges, under federal regulations, including 19 U.S.C. §§ 1602–1619, 18 U.S.C. § 983, and 39 C.F.R. § 233.7.
We immediately took steps to contest the forfeiture by filing the necessary documents and discussing them with the Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) assigned to the case.
Our USPIS cash seizure attorney’s diligent approach ensured that all responses were submitted before the critical 35-day deadline, adhering to the requirements set out in 18 U.S.C. § 983(a)(2)(B).
Throughout this process, we focused on gathering essential documentation and addressing any other pertinent legal concerns.
After a thorough negotiation period of 90 days, we successfully facilitated the return of the funds, as the Government preferred this to litigating with our firm.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, our USPIS cash seizure attorney is here to provide the guidance and support you need to reclaim what is rightfully yours.
Reach out to us at (619) 258-8888 for more information and a consultation, free of charge. We are here to help!
Contact Forfeiture Law Firm Today!
If you’ve received a Notice of Seizure or a custody receipt for your confiscated property, it’s crucial to act quickly.
Many individuals mistakenly delay their response or assume their assets are permanently taken by the Government, which can jeopardize their chances of recovery.
At Forfeiture Law Firm, we specialize in comprehensive communication management. We ensure that all necessary documents are submitted promptly and create a tailored legal strategy to fit your situation.
Whether the U.S. Postal Inspection Service seized your cash or you’re seeking information on recovering funds taken by USPIS, our USPIS cash seizure attorney and his team are here to assist you.
Contact us for a complimentary and confidential consultation with Attorney Dan Smith. Se habla Español.
Our USPIS cash seizure attorney will evaluate your notice, clarify your available options, and take swift action to safeguard your funds and your rights.
Our firm represents clients in asset forfeiture cases across the nation, including states like Arizona, Texas, Florida, Vermont, Washington, Michigan, New York, and beyond!
