It has come to our attention that quite a few people have recently received packages with notices from Homeland Security informing them that contraband has been seized and to expect another notice. Needless to say, this has unnerved many people.
In these cases, it is likely that law enforcement will send another letter in which you can forfeit the contents or simply do nothing and that may be the end of the matter. It’s also possible the initial notice could be the end of the matter.
If, in the unlikely event you are contacted and asked to appear at their office, or if someone personally comes to your home or place of business, it is important to know your rights. You are not legally required to appear anywhere, nor are you required to speak to law enforcement. In addition, you are not required to allow law enforcement to enter your home or business (unless they have a lawful search warrant, of course). If any of these events occur, you should know your rights and contact a lawyer.
Our Council (*) with its many experienced lawyers, can talk to you informally to determine if you need to hire a lawyer or how else you might respond to these seizure letters. You can contact the Council by email: [email protected].
We will continue to research, document and monitor this situation along with our allies.
In Solidarity.
Art by Mariom Luna.
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(*) Note:
The Council is not a law firm and cannot collectively represent anyone directly in these matters, though individual Council member can be retained outside of the Council to assist you.
