How To Protect High-Value Assets From Forfeiture During a Federal Investigation

 Posted on November 27, 2025 in Uncategorized

When federal agents begin an investigation, they often look closely at a person’s money and property. Expensive items like homes, cars, or bank accounts can quickly draw attention. They may try to take your property if agents believe it is connected to illegal activity. You do not even have to be charged with a crime for this to happen. If you have questions about your rights, a Houston, TX asset forfeiture defense lawyer can help you respond quickly if the government takes action against you.

Why Do Federal Agents Target High-Value Assets?

Asset forfeiture happens in both civil and criminal cases. In civil forfeiture, the government can seize property even if no one is charged with a crime. Under 18 U.S.C. § 981, federal agencies can take assets if they claim the property was involved in money laundering, drug crimes, or fraud. Criminal forfeiture occurs after a person is convicted of a federal offense. Under 21 U.S.C. § 853, prosecutors can ask the court to take property they believe came from or was used in criminal conduct.

High-value assets are often targeted because they represent wealth or status. In Texas, busy business centers and border cities such as Houston and El Paso attract extra attention from federal agents.

What Types of Assets Can Be Seized in a Federal Investigation?

Federal law allows the government to take many kinds of property, including:

• Bank accounts, investment funds, and business profits

• Real estate, such as homes, offices, or land

• Cars, boats, or airplanes

• Jewelry, gold, or fine art

• Cryptocurrency or digital wallets

Under 18 U.S.C. § 982, any property that the government believes was gained through a crime or used to commit a crime can be seized. Sometimes, this happens even before a person is charged. For example, if investigators believe a bank account was used for money laundering, they may freeze it or take the funds.

How Can You Protect Your Property Before a Seizure Happens?

The best way to protect your property is to stay organized and document everything. Keep clear financial records, receipts, and contracts that show the sources of your funds. Maintain separate business and personal accounts. If you own valuable items like gold or artwork, keep paperwork showing when and how you bought them. This information can prove that your assets are legitimate.

If you learn that you or your business are under investigation, do not hide or move anything. Doing so can make the situation worse. It may look like you are trying to cover something up, even when you are not. Instead, contact a lawyer right away. A qualified attorney can talk to investigators, review search warrants, and help you file a claim to challenge any seizure.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Harris County, TX Asset Forfeiture Defense Attorney

Attorney Arnold Spencer has more than 30 years of legal experience. He is known as a strong trial lawyer and litigator. He understands how federal agencies build forfeiture cases and how to challenge them effectively in court. He uses detailed financial review, strong legal arguments, and courtroom experience to help clients recover what belongs to them.

Taking quick legal action gives you the best chance to protect your assets. Call 469-283-6126 today and schedule a free consultation with our Houston, TX asset forfeiture defense lawyer.