News & Updates

A recent decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit affirmed the dismissal of a class action challenging the constitutionality of automobile forfeiture for driving under the influence of alcohol throughout Minnesota. Monte Mills represented the City of Golden Valley in LaVera Granetha Ashanti v. City of Golden Valley in federal district and appellate proceedings. The matter involved the seizure and forfeiture of a car loaned by a mother to her son who was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. The mother received her car back after proceedings in state court, and subsequently filed a class action against Golden Valley and all other similarly situated municipalities in Minnesota. She asserted federal and state takings, due process, and unreasonable seizure claims. The district court granted summary judgment to Golden Valley and the Eighth Circuit affirmed.