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Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law Vehicle Seizure Forfeiture

Vehicle Seizure and Forfeiture for DUI in Knoxville

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If you are charged with a second or subsequent DUI offense, your vehicle may be subject to seizure by the Tennessee Department of Safety and forfeiture to the state. For the best chance of getting your vehicle back, you must act quickly to hire an experienced Knoxville vehicle seizure and forfeiture attorney to represent you. Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law, has extensive experience in all types of DUI matters.

He can help you navigate the complex rules and regulations involved with vehicle seizure and aggressively defend you against DUI charges. Attorney Kurtz was named Top DUI Attorney in Knoxville by Cityview Magazine in 2011. He has been representing clients in DUI and other criminal defense matters for over a decade.

The firm prides itself on offering big firm service with the personal attention of a boutique law firm. Attorney Kurtz is committed to high quality representation for every client who comes through his doors. Contact us today.

How Does Vehicle Seizure and Forfeiture Occur?

A second DUI offense must have occurred within 5 years of the first offense for a vehicle to be seized.

The seizure and forfeiture process occurs basically as follows:

  • Seizure. The officer seizes the vehicle, gives a Notice of Property Seizure and Forfeiture of Conveyance form to the person in possession of the vehicle, and makes a reasonable attempt to determine and notify the owner of the vehicle.
  • Warrant. The officer must apply to the judge for a forfeiture warrant within 5 day of seizure. If the judge issues the warrant, it goes to the Department of Safety, which sends notice of the forfeiture to the owners.
  • Claims. Within 30 days after notice has been given, a written claim to the vehicle may filed with the Department of Safety. Within 30 days of receipt of any claim, the Department of Safety will set a date for a hearing on the forfeiture.
  • Hearing, Sale, and Disposition. The hearing is held to determine whether the vehicle should be forfeited. If it is forfeited and the vehicle is sold at auction, the local government keeps 15% of the proceeds and sends the remaining 85% to the state treasury.

Attorney Kurtz is a knowledgeable Knoxville vehicle seizure and forfeiture defense lawyer with the skill and experience to protect your rights, challenge your vehicle forfeiture, and fight for the best possible results in your DUI matter.

Contact us for high quality representation in DUI cases involving the possible forfeiture of your vehicle.

Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law

What Our Clients Are Saying

  • Avvo Superb Rating
  • Lead Counsel Rated
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    "From consultation to "case dismissed""
    From consultation to "case dismissed", Mr Kurtz was the epitome of professionalism and respect. Thank you.
    - Scott P.
    "Awesome attorney who goes above and beyond."
    He was always willing to take a call when we had any questions or concerns and he was always very professional and knowledgeable about our case and kept us updated.
    - Donna K.
    "If you need a defense lawyer, Robert Kurtz is your guy!"
    He listened to our legal issues without judgment and offered me hope without 'fluff'. He is straightforward and very knowledgeable. When I had questions he responded quickly. Not only did I like the way he ran his business, but we also got great results!
    - Brandi R.
    "Best lawyer hands down"
    Very sweet and professional and I highly recommend him. His secretary is super kind as well. Good results. And amazing representation.
    - M.E.
    "This is the man you want to go to."
    Just recently had the pleasure of having Mr. Kurtz work on my rather tricky case. It was resolved with minimum issues or setbacks to my personal life and I could not be more grateful for this gentleman.
    - Seth J.
    "Robert Kurtz is very dedicated."
    I am grateful for his dedication, determination, and perseverance. I always felt that he was accessible and never judgemental or dismissive.
    - Maripat R.
    "Extremely professional"
    Would recommend him to anyone having legal issues in Knoxville
    - Shane C.
    "I recommend Robert Kurtz without reservation"
    He handled my legal matter quickly, professionally, and to a totally successful conclusion. Additionally, he demonstrated superb listening skills, answering each of my questions directly, and with exacting attention to the details of my case.
    - Mike F.