Burbank (BUR) Airport Cash Seizure Attorney

Skilled Lawyer Contesting Airport Cash Seizures in Los Angeles County, California

If you are traveling at Hollywood Burbank Airport, it is important that you know the laws and regulations that TSA and other government agencies enforce. Simple mistakes can lead to these agencies seizing your valuable property through civil asset forfeiture. If you believe that your property has been wrongfully seized, reach out to a Los Angeles County, CA airport cash seizure lawyer for help.

Attorney Arnold Spencer of Spencer & Associates has decades of legal experience, and across his long career, he has represented numerous clients in state and federal courts. Our firm will fight to protect your constitutional rights, exploring all possible avenues to help you recover your assets.

Cash Reporting Laws at Hollywood Burbank Airport

Federal law requires travelers entering or leaving the United States with more than $10,000 in cash or negotiable instruments to file a Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments (FinCEN Form 105). This rule applies at Hollywood Burbank Airport just as it does at any other U.S. port of entry. Failure to report can expose you to civil penalties and potential criminal charges.

Even transfers within the country can attract scrutiny. While there is no domestic cash‐reporting form, law enforcement may ask questions about large sums of money in your possession. They may review transaction records or inquire about the source of funds. It is best to carry documentation—bank withdrawal slips, statements, or letters from financial institutions—that explains where the cash came from.

Understanding these rules in advance can help you avoid unexpected confrontations with law enforcement. When you know what to expect, you can plan your travel and financial arrangements accordingly.

When Can Government Officials Confiscate Assets at an Airport?

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents have the authority to seize undeclared or suspicious currency at Hollywood Burbank going in or out of the country. If officers believe the cash is tied to criminal activity such as drug trafficking, money laundering, or terrorism financing, they can confiscate it on the spot.

Seizure does not mean permanent forfeiture. Law enforcement must follow strict procedures, including providing a notice of seizure and instructions on how to file a claim. Still, you may face delays in retrieving your money and incur legal costs to contest the action.

Airport police, state investigators, and federal agents can all participate in a cash seizure. Their joint jurisdiction means even state offenses like tax evasion or unlicensed money transmission can trigger asset forfeiture at Burbank Airport.

Recovering Seized Assets Through Administrative Claims

If your cash is seized, you have the right to challenge the action through an administrative claim process, which involves questioning the legality of the seizure.

You must submit a written claim explaining your interest in the funds and any supporting evidence. Proof of lawful ownership is crucial. Bank records, receipts, or affidavits can show that the money was for personal use, a legitimate business transaction, or family expenses.

Alternatively, our firm can enter settlement negotiations to help you recover forfeited funds. However, if the prosecution or agency officials will not agree to a favorable result, we are prepared to escalate your case to litigation. We will fight for you in court, identifying any violation of your rights and arguing for an appropriate remedy.

Contact a Los Angeles County, CA Airport Cash Seizure Lawyer

At Spencer & Associates, we understand the stress of having your money held by federal agents at Hollywood Burbank Airport. We will review your seizure notice, gather the evidence you need, and file a timely administrative claim on your behalf. Call 510-961-6232 or contact our Burbank, CA airport cash seizure attorney today to schedule a free consultation.