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Civil Forfeiture

A legal process where the government takes ownership of property suspected of being connected to a crime, even if the property owner is not charged or convicted.

Nonjudicial Forfeiture

Also called administrative forfeiture, this is when a federal agency seizes property and initiates forfeiture without involving a court. The property owner must take action to challenge it in court.

Preponderance of the Evidence

A legal standard of proof meaning that the evidence shows something is more likely than not (over 50% chance). It's a lower standard than 'beyond a reasonable doubt'.

Clear and Convincing Evidence

A legal standard of proof that is higher than 'preponderance of the evidence' but lower than 'beyond a reasonable doubt.' It means the evidence shows a high probability that a fact is true.

Innocent Owner Defense

A legal argument that an owner should not lose their property through forfeiture because they were unaware of, and did not consent to, its use in criminal activity.

General Fund of the Treasury

The main account where the U.S. government collects taxes and other revenue, used to pay for general government operations and programs.