Facing Money Laundering Charges

Money laundering is the concealment of funds obtained through illicit and illegal activity such as criminal enterprises. Individuals use a legitimate company to process the currency.  The individual passes the funds through the business, adding them to the revenue accrued with real business interactions so that they blend in with funds accrued from legitimate sales or services. A criminal defense attorney in Miami Dade can explain the rights of the client and how to defend against these charges. When facing serious charges of this nature, an experienced criminal defense attorney in Miami Dadelike Scott Saul will investigate the case and try to uncover evidence that refutes the charges.

Money Laundering Crimes

Money laundering charges may arise when a person receives money after completing criminal activity such as:

• Blackmail or bribery
• Drug dealings
• Extortion
• Illegal monetary transfers
• Theft
• The trafficking of people
• Illegal transfers of real property
• Financial fraud 

Penalties for Money Laundering

Money laundering is charged as a third-degree felony when the value of the illegal transactions is between $301 and $19,999. The maximum penalty is up to five years’ imprisonment in a state prison. For illegal transactions of $20,000 to $99,999, the crime is classified as a second-degree felony. This crime carries a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment in a state prison. For transactions valued at $100,000 or more, a first-degree felony is charged. This crime can result in 30 years’ imprisonment in a state prison. 

Viable Defenses to Money Laundering Charges

To successfully defend against these charges, it is important to show the lack of intent and the legal nature of these transactions. Another potential defense is duress where the person believes that he or she is in danger if he or she does not commit the crime. Another is a lack of evidence. Money laundering requires a specific illegal activity and intent, and without these elements, there is insufficient evidence.