Portland,
Oregon International Airport (PDX)
Cash Seizure Lawyer

Portland, Oregon International Airport (PDX) Cash Seizure Lawyer

Portland, Oregon International Airport (PDX) Cash Seizure Attorney

Facing an Arrest? Call the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC.

If you are flying through PDX and find yourself facing a cash seizure, the situation can be overwhelming and intimidating. The law requires that anyone transporting more than $10,000 in currency in or out of the United States must declare the funds. If you are dealing with this issue, a Portland, Oregon International Airport (PDX) cash seizure lawyer can make a critical difference in navigating the legal complexities of the situation and recovering your funds.

Cash seizures at airports are more common than most realize, particularly for those carrying large sums of money. That’s why the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, are here to fight for your rights and recover your funds.

Why Cash Seizures Happen at PDX

Cash seizures at Portland International Airport can occur for several reasons, often linked to misunderstandings about federal customs laws or suspicions of unlawful activity. Some of the most common causes for cash seizures at PDX include:

Failure To Declare Large Sums. Many travelers do not realize that transporting more than $10,000 in or out of the country requires a formal declaration to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Even if the funds are lawfully obtained, failing to file the necessary paperwork can result in a seizure.
Suspicion of Criminal Activity. If CBP agents suspect that the funds are tied to criminal activity, they can seize the cash for further investigation. In these cases, even if you have declared the money, CBP may still act against you.
Errors in Documentation. Sometimes, travelers who attempt to declare their money still have their funds seized due to errors or inaccuracies in their paperwork. For example, incorrectly filling out a declaration form or providing incomplete information can lead to a seizure.

It’s essential to understand that cash seizure is a civil matter, not a criminal one, but even if you haven’t been accused of a crime, CBP has the authority to seize your money if they believe it was obtained or is being used unlawfully. Responding promptly and correctly is key to recovering your funds.

The Process After a Cash Seizure at PDX

Once your money is seized at Portland International Airport, a Notice of Seizure and Information to Claimants can be issued. This document outlines the reason for the seizure, the legal basis for it, and your options for responding. The next steps are time-sensitive and require careful attention, as you typically have 30 days from the date of the notice to file a response.

There are a few paths you can take after a cash seizure at PDX:

Filing a Petition for Remission or Mitigation. This is the first, and often the most straightforward, option. A petition for remission asks CBP to return your money based on the specific circumstances of your case. In order for this petition to be successful, it must be well-constructed, presenting a strong argument supported by evidence that the funds are legitimate and unrelated to illegal activities.
Filing a Claim for Judicial Forfeiture. If your petition is denied or if you want to take a more aggressive legal route, you can file a claim to take your case to court. This is a formal legal proceeding in which a judge can determine whether the seizure was justified. Filing a claim leads to a federal civil forfeiture case, and you need to have a lawyer assist you in preparing for this complex legal process.
Seeking Mitigation. In some situations, CBP may offer to return a portion of the seized funds through a process called mitigation. This might happen if the seizure was based on failure to declare with no suspicion of illegal activity. Although mitigation offers a compromise, it can still result in the loss of a portion of your money.

It is critical to act quickly and contact the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, as soon as possible. Failing to respond to a Notice of Seizure within the specified timeframe can result in the permanent forfeiture of your funds.

Why You Need a Portland Cash Seizure Lawyer

Handling a cash seizure at PDX on your own can be extremely difficult, as the laws governing these situations are complex, and procedures must be carefully followed. Portland cash seizure lawyers can help you:

Understand Your Rights. Our experienced lawyers can explain your legal rights following a cash seizure and help you make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Navigate Legal Procedures. Filing a petition or claim requires meticulous attention to detail and legal knowledge. Our lawyers can ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed correctly and submitted on time.
Build a Strong Case. Whether you’re filing a petition or going to court, our lawyers can work to gather the necessary documentation and evidence to support your case. This may include proof of the legal source of your funds and other materials to demonstrate your compliance with the law.
Negotiate With Authorities. In some cases, our attorneys may be able to negotiate with CBP or the federal government to resolve the situation without the need for a lengthy court battle.

FAQs About Portland, Oregon International Airport (PDX) Cash Seizure Laws

Can I Face Criminal Charges if My Cash Is Seized at PDX?

You won’t face criminal charges for carrying too much cash at PDX. If the circumstance surrounding the seizure leads to a criminal investigation, for example, if the money is tied to criminal activity, such as drug trafficking, tax evasion, or smuggling, then you could face criminal charges. In these cases, criminal charges may be filed alongside the civil forfeiture proceedings.

What Happens if You Ignore a Customs Seizure Letter After Your Cash Is Seized at PDX?

Ignoring a customs seizure letter is not recommended, as it can result in the permanent forfeiture of your money. If you do not respond to the notice within the given time frame, typically 30 days, CBP will consider the seizure unchallenged, and you can lose the right to dispute the case in court or through a petition.

Are There Any Limits on How Much Cash I Can Carry Through PDX Airport?

The law does not limit how much cash you can carry through PDX Airport; however, CBP requires that any amount of cash or monetary equivalent, for example, gold bars, valued over $10,000 must be declared. Failure to report amounts above the threshold can lead to seizure, fines, and potential legal consequences.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Cash Seizure Case at PDX Airport?

The timeline for resolving a cash seizure case can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and how quickly the CBP administration processes your paperwork. Some cases can take several months, while others can take over a year. Having legal representation can help expedite the process by ensuring all required paperwork is filed correctly and promptly.

If you are facing the legal consequences of a cash seizure, don’t delay taking action. The Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, are available to help you navigate your way through each step and can fight for your rights and the recovery of your funds. Contact us today to set up a consultation, and let’s get to work.

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