Money laundering charges are often brought alongside white collar crime allegations. The money laundering statute is very broad. As a result, prosecutors may use money laundering charges as leverage to convince the accused to plead guilty or cooperate with governmental authorities.
If you have been accused of money laundering, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. You need a lawyer who will examine and challenge the government's evidence. You need a lawyer who will hold the government to its burden of proof. You need a lawyer who is able to make a persuasive accounting of your position in the courtroom. Dan Cogdell of The Cogdell Law Firm, has a nearly unmatched record of success defending clients against the full range of white collar crimes.
Money Laundering and Enhanced Charges
In order to gain a conviction on money laundering charges, the government must prove each of the following beyond a reasonable doubt:
- The defendant conducted a financial transaction with the proceeds of an unlawful activity
- The defendant knew the transaction involved the proceeds of an unlawful activity
- The transaction was conducted to conceal the nature, location, source or control of the proceeds of an unlawful activity
When a money laundering charge accompanies a charge related to fraud, such as wire fraud, bank fraud or tax fraud, the penalties upon conviction can be greatly enhanced. At the federal level, money laundering can be punished by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or more.
Our law firm will go to work immediately in your defense. We will investigate the evidence in order to determine appropriate defense strategies. Perhaps there is reasonable doubt as to one or some of the elements of the case. Perhaps the government violated your rights while investigating you. Whatever the case, we will find all applicable defenses and will be prepared to make a strong case in trial.
Houston Fraud Defense Attorney
If you, your business or an employee at your business has been accused of concealing a source of illegal money, speak to a knowledgeable lawyer with experience handling federal white collar crimes as soon as possible. Contact The Cogdell Law Firm. To arrange a consultation with a top-voted Houston, Texas, money laundering defense attorney, call 713-426-2244 or contact us online.