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Notice to Claimants DEFENDERS of Your Rights. Your Life. Your Future.

St. Petersburg Notice of Seizure Attorneys

According to the Sixth Circuit Administrative Order 2016-039, the following form must be used to provide notice to the claimants after the seizure of property that is subject to forfeiture in Pinellas County, FL.

If you received a notice of seizure form, then contact an attorney to find out more about the filing requirements under Florida Statute Section 932.704(5)(c). This article discusses procedural safeguards under the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act related to the forfeiture of property alleged to be contraband under Florida Statute §§ 932.701–932.7062.

This article explains your right to contest the forfeiture action by filing and serving upon the attorney representing the law enforcement agency in Pinellas County responsible for seizing the property. Find out more about how to file the responsive pleadings and notice of affirmative defenses under Florida Law.

Attorneys for Seized Property in Pinellas County, FL

If your property was seized by law enforcement officers in Pinellas County, then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg, FL, to discuss the seizure and underlying criminal investigation. We represent clients after their property is seized. We also represent the “innocent owner” who can also fight for the return of the property.

Call us at (727) 592-5885 to discuss your case.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR PASCO AND PINELLAS COUNTIES, FLORIDA

RE: NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF SEIZURE AND FILING REQUIREMENTS UNDER SECTION 932.704(5)(c), FLORIDA STATUTES

The Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act sets forth the procedural requirements governing the forfeiture of contraband articles. See §§ 932.701–932.7062, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to section 943.704(5)(c), Florida Statutes, any claimant who desires to contest the forfeiture action shall file and serve upon the attorney representing the seizing agency any responsive pleadings and affirmative defenses. It is therefore

ORDERED:

THAT YOU HAVE BEEN SERVED WITH A FORMAL COMPLAINT AND AS A PERSON WHO CLAIMS AN INTEREST IN THE SEIZED PROPERTY, YOU HAVE TWENTY (20) DAYS FROM SERVICE OF A COPY OF THE COMPLAINT FOR FORFEITURE TO FILE IN THIS COURT ANY RESPONSIVE PLEADING, ANSWER, AND/OR AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES TO THE COMPLAINT FOR FORFEITURE.

YOU ARE FURTHER COMMANDED TO SERVE A COPY OF SUCH ANSWER OR RESPONSIVE PLEADING WITHIN SAID TIME PERIOD UPON THE ATTORNEY WHO FILED THE COMPLAINT FOR FORFEITURE. FAILURE TO FILE AND SERVE SUCH ANSWER OR PLEADING WITHIN SAID TIME PERIOD SHALL RESULT IN THE ENTRY OF A DEFAULT PURSUANT TO FLORIDA RULE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE 1.500(a), AND A FINAL ORDER OF FORFEITURE.

Attorney for Claimants of Seized Property in Pinellas County, FL

If you are served with a complaint for the forfeiture of property seized during a criminal investigation, then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent you. Our criminal defense attorneys with offices in St. Petersburg, FL, can help you fight for the return of seized property.

Call (727) 592-5885 today to discuss your case.

Meet The Attorneys Melinda Morris & Seth Shapiro
Attorney Profiles

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

See the Difference Our Service Provides
  • FORMER STATE PROSECUTOR
    Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
  • STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVE
    We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
  • TRUSTED & EXPERIENCED
    Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
  • PERSONAL ATTENTION
    We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
  • PROMPT COMMUNICATION
    You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
  • SAME DAY REPRESENTATION
    The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.

CLient Testimonials

Hear From Real People We've Helped

At Morris Law Firm, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Look no further than Morris Law"
    Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.
    - Stephen on AVVO
    "100% satisfied with Morris Law Group."
    100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.
    - Peter R. on Yelp
    "Best legal representation"
    If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda
    - Hassan on Google
    "Thanks to The Morris Law Firm"
    Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.
    - Melody Z.
    "Goes above and beyond"
    Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.
    - Shasta on Google
    "They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful."
    Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.
    - Elina P. on Google