Seizures & Forfeitures

Goods can be prohibited or restricted from entering or leaving the U.S. for failing to comply with any number of laws and regulations, even otherwise legitimate goods that aid the importation or exportation of items that are illegal. Violative products can be seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection until the underlying issue is resolved, or they can be forfeited to CBP and the company loses its right of ownership altogether.

But there are alternatives that give companies more favorable options. Examples include entering goods into a bonded warehouse or foreign-trade zone if the violation can be corrected, having an entry rejected or denied so the company can ship the goods back out of the U.S., and offering a financial or other settlement. Companies can request that CBP take specific actions they deem to be most favorable to their interests and can protest any adverse steps CBP may take.

STR’s staff of savvy attorneys and professionals, many of whom have served in relevant capacities at CBP or other federal agencies, can help you identify and take measures that best keep you out of CBP’s crosshairs and minimize the impact on your business. We can also be a valuable resource if a resolution can’t be reached and litigation is necessary (view our litigation services here).

Exclusivity: Our team of exceptionally knowledgeable and experienced professionals has handled and adjudicated these matters while working at CBP, in some cases training their enforcement officials.

Effectiveness: STR has a long history of administratively and judicially addressing seizures in ways beneficial to our clients.

Responsiveness: Knowing that seizures require quick but considered action, we work closely with you to monitor and prepare necessary documentation and meet required deadlines.