An arrest for felony possession of drugs or other contraband articles can have serious consequences aside from criminal penalties. Property which is used to transport drugs and other contraband can be forfeited under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act. This means the property may be seized by police and eventually, through a separate civil proceeding, the owner can lose his rights to the property. A Judge can award the property to the law enforcement agency seizing it and/or the State of Florida for their use or resale. Property that can be forfeited includes cars, boats, airplanes and even real estate. The property can be seized at the time of your arrest and, unless an attorney is retained to protect your rights by filing for an immediate hearing challenging its seizure, you may lose your property permanently.

Forfeiture law is supplemental to criminal law and your rights to your valuable property as well as your rights under the criminal law require an attorney who is knowledgeable in both areas.