Reforming the Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform Act

Civil asset forfeiture laws provide law enforcement agencies with the power to seize property and money connected to illegal activity. The Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform Act of 2000 attempted to level the playing field between law enforcement and property owners. Unfortunately, it has failed and further reform is needed at both the federal and state levels. The Note examines the dangers created by the current civil asset forfeiture program and proposes changes necessary to create a fairer process.