Suleiman v. Cantino

Charles Cantino appeals an order distributing proceeds from the sale of certain exotic birds. The order grants priority to Cantino's judgment creditor, Jusuf Suleiman, over attorney's liens filed by Cantino's retained counsel, Franklin & Watkins (Franklin) for legal services performed in obtaining the release of the birds. The birds had been seized by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an alleged violation of 18 U.S.C. § 42. We affirm.

In March 1978, Suleiman and Cantino entered into a venture for the acquisition, importation, and sale of exotic Indonesian birds.…