(A) Any person claiming an interest in the vehicle seized must at any time within 15 days from the date of the notice of seizure, file with the Superior Court of Los Angeles County a claim, verified in accordance with Cal. Civil Procedure Code § 446, stating his or her interest in the vehicle. An endorsed copy of the claim shall be served by the claimant on the City Attorney or District Attorney within ten days of the filing of the claim.
(B) Court proceedings shall be in accordance with the following:
(1) If a verified claim is filed, the forfeiture proceeding shall be set for a hearing on a day not less than 30 days therefrom.
(2) The hearing shall be before the court.
(3) The provisions of the Cal. Civil Procedure Code shall apply to the proceedings under this chapter unless otherwise inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in this chapter. However, there shall be no joinder of actions or coordination of actions, except for forfeiture proceedings, or cross-complaints and the issues shall be limited strictly to questions related to this chapter.
(Ord. 1218, passed 11-19-03)