Unlawful seizure

Definitions

The act of taking possession of property or a person by a government agent or official without legal authority or in violation of constitutional rights.

A confiscation or arrest conducted without a valid warrant, probable cause, or adherence to due process of law.

Examples

The court ruled that the police officer's search of the vehicle constituted an unlawful seizure of private property.

The human rights organization filed a formal complaint regarding the unlawful seizure of documents from the journalist's home.

Synonyms

Illegal confiscation Illicit appropriation Unauthorized taking Unlawful impoundment Wrongful seizure

Antonyms

Lawful confiscation Legal seizure Authorized appropriation Legitimate repossession Court ordered impoundment