MI HB5233

Establishes procedures for seizing and forfeiting personal and real property related to crimes, with exceptions for primary residences of spouses or dependent children who lacked knowledge of the crime.

Allows seizure of property without court order in limited circumstances including lawful arrests, valid search warrants, exigent circumstances, and property dangerous to health or safety.

Requires written notice within 28 days to persons with ownership interests, security interests, and crime victims; establishes 28-day period for claimants to contest forfeiture.

Creates court procedures for property owners to challenge seizure and establishes standards for proving property is subject to forfeiture by preponderance of evidence at civil proceedings.

Distributes forfeited property proceeds in priority order: secured party interests, restitution, victim claims, government liens, and expenses; remaining balance split 75% for law enforcement and 25% for crime victim services.