Dallas Money Laundering Defense Attorneys

Charges Often Tied to Money Laundering Cases

Any type of criminal activity that generates money potentially could lead to a money laundering charge. Prosecutors often use a broad definition of money laundering when they seek convictions. For instance, a person could be charged with money laundering if the funds used in a financial transaction were derived from or used to further unlawful activity, such as:

Money laundering often may be one of multiple charges that a person faces in a state or federal prosecution. Working with a law firm with the skill, experience, and resources to tackle a complex defense will be crucial.

Understanding Money Laundering Penalties

The direct consequences of a money laundering conviction under state or federal law can be harsh. Those consequences are the primary consideration for many people as they work with their lawyers to craft a defense strategy.

In federal court, a person convicted of a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956(a) can receive a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the unlawful transaction, whichever is greater, and prison for up to 20 years. A person convicted of an 18 U.S.C. § 1957(a) violation can face a fine and up to 10 years in prison.

In a Texas state court, a person convicted of money laundering faces punishment that depends on the value of the funds involved in the allegedly illegal activity. The punishment ranges are:

• $2,500 or more but less than $30,000 – State jail felony punishable by up to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000
• $30,000 or more but less than $150,000 – Third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
• $150,000 or more but less than $300,000 – Second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
• $300,000 or more – First-degree felony punishable by up to life or 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000

How Can a Money Laundering Defense Lawyer Help You?

We are board certified in criminal law and criminal appellate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. We take on tough cases, including those that involve complex evidence such as money laundering allegations. When you work with Broden & Mickelsen, LLP, you can count on us to:

• Conduct an exhaustive investigation – We believe a solid defense starts with a solid investigation. We work with skilled investigators and often consult with professionals from various fields, including accountants who understand the accounting procedures involved in money laundering cases.
• Provide a thorough review of your case – After we conduct our assessment of your case, we can discuss the evidence, potential defenses, plea offers, and other information that bears on the crucial decisions you will need to make.
• Put your interests first – Your future depends on your case. We will put your needs and goals first in everything we do, including the motions we file, the discussions we have with prosecutors, and the arguments we make to a judge and jury.
• Talk with you – We know facing a money laundering charge, or any type of criminal allegation can be highly stressful. Sometimes it makes a difference to just hear from your lawyer. At Broden & Mickelsen, LLP, we make it a priority to always communicate with our clients and answer questions about their case.