Facing Federal Money Laundering Charges? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights

Money laundering is a serious federal crime that involves concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, typically by means of transfers involving foreign banks or legitimate businesses. Federal money laundering charges carry severe penalties, including substantial fines, lengthy prison sentences, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing federal money laundering charges, it is crucial to have an experienced defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Understanding Money Laundering Under U.S. Law

Federal money laundering is prosecuted under 18 U.S. Code § 1956 and 18 U.S. Code § 1957. These statutes make it illegal to engage in financial transactions with the proceeds of criminal activity with the intent to promote the illegal activity, to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of the proceeds, or to avoid transaction reporting requirements under federal law.

Types of Money Laundering:

• Classic Money Laundering: Involves moving illicit funds through a complex series of transactions to obscure the original source.
• Structuring: Breaking down large amounts of money into smaller transactions to avoid triggering reporting requirements.
• Trade-Based Money Laundering: Involves the manipulation of trade transactions to disguise the origin of illicit funds.
• Bank Laundering: Using a series of bank transfers, often involving offshore accounts, to conceal the source of funds.
• Real Estate Laundering: Investing illegal funds in real estate transactions to hide their origin.

Penalties for Federal Money Laundering

The penalties for federal money laundering are severe and can have long-lasting consequences. Under 18 U.S. Code § 1956 and 18 U.S. Code § 1957, the penalties include:

• Imprisonment: Up to 20 years in federal prison for each money laundering count under 18 U.S. Code § 1956, and up to 10 years for each count under 18 U.S. Code § 1957.
• Fines: Fines can range up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater.
• Supervised Release: Following imprisonment, the defendant may be subject to a period of supervised release.
• Asset Forfeiture: The government may seize assets that are determined to be involved in or traceable to the money laundering activities.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for money laundering will result in a permanent federal criminal record, which can affect your ability to secure employment, obtain loans, and more.

Related Federal Offenses

In addition to money laundering, individuals may face related charges under federal law, which can compound the penalties:

• Bank Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1344): Defrauding a financial institution, often linked to money laundering activities.
• Wire Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1343): Using electronic communications to carry out fraudulent schemes, often associated with money laundering.
• Mail Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1341): Using the postal service or any interstate carrier to execute a scheme to defraud, commonly seen in money laundering cases.
• Tax Evasion (26 U.S. Code § 7201): Illegally evading taxes, often linked to the concealment of illegal income.

Consequences of a Federal Money Laundering Conviction

A conviction for federal money laundering can have devastating and far-reaching consequences:

• Long-Term Incarceration: Lengthy prison sentences can severely disrupt your life, causing financial hardship and emotional stress for you and your family.
• Financial Ruin: In addition to fines and asset forfeiture, the financial burden of a conviction can leave you struggling to rebuild your life.
• Damage to Reputation: A federal conviction for money laundering can severely damage your personal and professional reputation, making it difficult to regain trust in your community.
• Loss of Professional Licenses: Certain professionals, such as financial advisors, accountants, and attorneys, may lose their licenses or certifications following a conviction.

Defending Against Money Laundering Charges

Successfully defending against federal money laundering charges requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing the evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:

• Lack of Knowledge: The prosecution must prove that you knowingly engaged in money laundering. If you were unaware of the illicit nature of the funds or transactions, this could be a strong defense.
• No Intent to Conceal: If the prosecution cannot prove that you intended to conceal the nature or origin of the funds, the charges may not hold.
• Challenging the Source of Funds: Andrew may challenge the prosecution’s claim that the funds involved were derived from illegal activities.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement officials coerced or induced you to engage in money laundering activities that you would not have otherwise committed, entrapment could be a defense.
• Procedural Defenses: Andrew may challenge the legality of the investigation, including whether law enforcement violated your rights during the gathering of evidence.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling federal offenses, including money laundering charges. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.

When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:

• Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s deep understanding of federal money laundering laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
• Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.

The Importance of Early Legal Intervention

If you have been charged with federal money laundering, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense

Facing charges of federal money laundering can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today

If you have been arrested or charged with federal money laundering, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.

Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:

• Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
• Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.

Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you. .