What is civil forfeiture?

In the United States, civil forfeiture (also called civil asset forfeiture or civil judicial forfeiture) is a process in which law enforcement officers take assets from people who are suspected of involvement with crime or illegal activity without necessarily charging the owners with wrongdoing.

Should civil forfeiture laws be used to seize property without a conviction?

Critics argue that civil forfeiture laws are often used to seize property without a conviction, sometimes without even charging the owner with a crime. Moreover, the potential for law enforcement to prioritize revenue over justice is a major concern.

How effective is civil forfeiture?

Civil forfeiture is codified in 18 U.S.C. §§ 981, 983, 984, and 985, as well as in 21 U.S.C. § 881. Proponents argue that it is effective in thwarting criminal organizations by efficiently and directly harming suspected criminals economically while helping law enforcement financially.