Supreme Court 6-3 Ruling in Culley v. Marshall Mandates Timely Forfeiture Hearings

May 9, 2024, 07:30 PM

The U.S. Supreme Court has issued a ruling in the case of Culley v. Marshall, which centers on the civil forfeiture of vehicles owned by two women who had loaned their cars to individuals later arrested for drug crimes. The Court decided that while the Due Process Clause mandates a timely hearing for the forfeiture of property, it does not necessarily require the immediate return of the property. This decision, which reflects a 6-3 majority opinion led by Justice Kavanaugh and highlights Justice Gorsuch's emphasis on juries, underscores a significant ideological split within the Court. The ruling has been interpreted as a setback for property rights, with implications for how swiftly seized properties can be contested in court.